Evaluation of Refractive Measurements Using a Handheld Autorefractor (Retinomax K+ Screen) Versus Streak Retinoscopy in Dogs.

Retinomax K+ Screen systematically overestimates hyperopia; retinoscopy remains more reliable for canine refractive assessment.

This comparative study evaluated the Retinomax K+ Screen handheld autorefractor against manual streak retinoscopy for refractive measurements in dogs. Thirty-four dogs (68 eyes) across 15 breeds underwent both examination methods without cycloplegia. Autorefraction was successfully completed in 57 of 68 eyes, with 11 eyes excluded due to inadequate measurement quality. Retinoscopy yielded a mean spherical equivalent of 0.13 ± 1.04 diopters, while autorefraction produced significantly more hyperopic readings (0.98 ± 1.66 D; p < 0.001). Bland-Altman analysis revealed wide limits of agreement (-2.52 to +4.10 D), indicating substantial measurement variability between methods. A moderate positive correlation was demonstrated (ρ = 0.49; p < 0.001). While the autorefractor offers speed and non-invasiveness, it systematically overestimates hyperopia with considerable variability compared to retinoscopy. The authors conclude that despite rapid acquisition capabilities, the inconsistent results and reduced reliability under suboptimal clinical conditions limit its precision and clinical utility as a reliable screening tool in veterinary practice.

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