Orbitofacial Photometric Analysis in Nigerian Children

Abstract

Aim: This study was conducted to gather data on the normal measurements of facial features in healthy children from South-East Nigeria. The aim was to measure the distance between the pupils (IPD), the distance between the inner corners of the eyes (ICD), and the distance between the outer corners of the eyes (OCD) in order to establish a reference for ophthalmological assessments and diagnoses. The study was based on the understanding that these orbitofacial measurements and canthal indices are important tools for anatomists and craniofacial surgeons in evaluating systemic syndromes, craniofacial abnormalities, and post-traumatic telecanthus. Method: A sample of 120 healthy subjects within the age range of 1 to 5 years was enrolled in this study. The photographs of the face were captured non- invasively using a Nikon D 90 camera, orbitofacial landmarks were identified and measured using Image J Software. The data was then analyzed to determine the normal measurements for these facial features in healthy children from South- East Nigeria. Results: showed that all parameters measured (IPD, ICD, OCD) were higher in females than in males, but the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion: The study presents a primary data base for orbitofacial anthropometric indices of children in South-East Nigerian which can be used as a reference for ophthalmological assessments and diagnoses. This data can be used to aid in the diagnosis of craniofacial abnormalities and post-traumatic telecanthus, as well as to evaluate systemic syndromes. Additionally, this study can be used as a benchmark for future studies on this topic in the same population or other population as well.