Keratoconus
The word Keratoconus is formed by two Greek words: kerato, meaning cornea, and konos,
meaning cone. Keratoconus is a condition in which the shape of the cornea, which is usually
round, is distorted, developing a cone-shaped bulge, resulting in harm to vision. Progression
of the condition depends on the patient’s age at the time of the onset. The earlier the onset,
the faster keratoconus progresses. The condition is always bilateral and asymmetric - meaning
that it affects both eyes, however one eye may be more affected than the other.
What causes Keratoconus?
Keratoconus is an inherited condition that sometimes skips generations. Its onset is usually
during puberty and often related to allergies (hay fever, asthma and eczema). The cornea
is a bit more elastic than normal and tends to alter in shape and thin out becoming cone
shaped. Rubbing the eyes can aggravate the condition.
How is Keratoconus treated?
1. Eyeglasses in the early stages.
2. Rigid contact lenses: when eyeglasses do not work.
3. C3R - Corneal Collagen Crosslinking with
Riboflavin - increases the strength of the
cornea to prevent progress.
4. Intracorneal rings (Intacs and Ferrara): when there is intolerance to contact lenses
and when the condition continues to progress.
5. Corneal transplant: in advanced stages - either a partial thickness (Deep Anterior
Lamellar or DALK) or full thickness (Penetrating or PK)
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