H18.6

Clinical Causes: Genetic factors: Family history can increase the risk of keratoconus. Environmental factors: Eye rubbing or sustained eye irritation may contribute to its development. Other conditions: Conditions like allergies and asthma can exacerbate eye rubbing, potentially worsening keratoconus. Biomechanical weakness: A structural weakness in the corneal tissue can predispose to thinning and cone-shaped deformation.

Key Symptoms: Blurring or distortion of vision: Objects may appear wavy, distorted, or blurry. Increased sensitivity to light and glare: Bright lights may cause discomfort or halos. Frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions: Rapid progression can lead to the need for frequent updates. Difficulty seeing at night: Night vision can become significantly impaired. Eye irritation or discomfort: Some individuals may experience eye dryness or irritation, especially if they frequently rub their eyes. Sudden worsening of vision: In advanced cases, vision can deteriorate rapidly.

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis of keratoconus involves a comprehensive eye examination that includes corneal imaging tests. A slit-lamp exam allows the eye care professional to observe the corneal shape and thinning. Corneal topography or tomography provides detailed maps of the cornea’s surface curvature, confirming the diagnosis and assessing the extent of the cone formation. These tools help differentiate keratoconus from other corneal or refractive errors and guide appropriate treatment planning.

Treatment Protocols: While keratoconus cannot be cured, various management options aim to control its progression and improve vision: - Corrective lenses: Mild cases are often managed with glasses, providing clear vision. - Contact lenses: Specialized soft or rigid gas-permeable contact lenses can realign the cornea's surface for improved vision. - Cross-linking: A minimally invasive procedure using ultraviolet light and riboflavin (vitamin B2) to strengthen corneal tissue and slow disease progression. - Intacs implants: Small semi-circular ring segments inserted into the cornea to flatten the cone and improve shape. - Surgical options: In advanced cases, corneal transplant may be necessary to replace the damaged tissue and restore vision. Regular monitoring and timely intervention are essential to manage keratoconus effectively.