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Keratoconus (“cone shaped cornea”) is a disease of the cornea. The cornea thins gradually in its central and lower regions, assuming the shape of a cone. This process causes myopia (nearsightedness) and irregular astigmatism, resulting in distorted vision that can not be corrected completely with eyeglasses. The disease can be hereditary or endemic. Keratoconus develops due to the thinning of the cornea and can be caused by external factors such as constant eye rubbing due to allergic irritation. The disease is often characterized by gradual changes in the corneal structure.
Orbscan and Eyesys are diagnostic devices which are used to identify Keratoconus. These devices "map" the cornea and measure its thickness. If symptoms of this condition are detected upon evaluation, it is recommended that all immediate family members schedule diagnostic testing.
The cornea is the exterior layer of the eye, refracting the majority of light rays entering the eye. Conditions necessary for obtaining visual acuity are structural symmetry and transparency of the cornea.
The change in corneal structure is indicated by elevated astigmatism, a gradual increase in prescription and corneal instability. Vision is distorted and lacks uniformity. The impairment of visual acuity and focusing can not be entirely corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses. Additional symptoms of the disease include impaired ability to distinguish color hues, poor night vision and glare. Research indicates a direct correlation between a thin cornea and intraocular pressure.
Treatment
When mild, Keratoconus can be corrected by the use of eye glasses or contact lenses. However, when the severity of this condition intensifies, surgical intervention is occasionally necessary. Options for surgery include Intracorneal Ring Implants, Cross Linking, and Corneal Transplant.
One of the most popular and recommended surgeries for treating Keratoconus is Intracorneal Ring Implants (INTACS) which are effective in providing corneal reinforcement. An innovative treatment option is Cross Linking, a biochemical process that implements the use of UV rays and riboflavin to harden the cornea. When Keratoconus is in advanced stages, a partial or complete Corneal Transplant may be necessary. This procedure is performed when there is a loss of vision due to extensive corneal turbidity (cloudiness). The actual process can be completed using an Intralase devise that is sometimes successful in preserving a portion of the original cornea.
During the early stages of this disease, resolution can be obtained by the use of eye glasses or soft contact lenses. However, as this condition progresses, corneal distortion increases and thickness decreases. Therefore, keratoconic contact lenses may be necessary to improve vision. These lenses are rigid permeable contacts which are customized to the patient's eyes. The contact itself traps a layer of tears that reduces distortion to help create sharper and clearer vision. At Enaim, the Keratoconus Clinic staff performs comprehensive testing to diagnose each stage of the disease and its progression, thereby providing each patient with individualized treatment options.
