Defined by the International Myopia Institute (IMI) as high myopia accompanied by structural changes such as posterior staphyloma, myopic maculopathy, or optic neuropathy.

Generally defined as a refractive error of diopters or an axial length of ≥26.5is greater than or equal to 26.5

Posterior Staphyloma —a localized bulging of the back of the eye wall—is considered a definitive sign of PM. Common Complications

While often confused with "high myopia," pathologic myopia is distinct because it involves specific degenerative lesions rather than just a high refractive error.