What is the average axial length of an eye with myopia or staphyloma?

In cases of myopia, especially when associated with staphyloma (a distortion of the eye globe), the axial length of the eye tends to be longer than the typical range found in emmetropic (normally sighted) eyes. Average axial lengths for emmetropic eyes typically fall between 22.0 to 24.5 millimeters. However, in individuals with myopia, particularly those with significant refractive errors or structural changes like staphyloma, the axial length can exceed 26.5 millimeters.

This elongation occurs as the eye adapts to maintain focus on objects at varying distances, but it can lead to excessive stretching of the eye wall and consequently, structural issues. Thus, selecting "greater than 26.5 millimeters" accurately reflects the characteristics of myopic eyes with staphyloma, indicating that such eyes are significantly longer than average, which correlates with the development of myopia. This insight is crucial for diagnosing and managing myopia-related conditions.