Keratoconus (KC) is a progressive degenerative condition of the eye in which the cornea becomes progressively thinner and cone-like. If left untreated, it can lead to significant visual impairment.

The word keratoconus originates from the Greek words kerato-idis (cornea) and konos (cone).  The condition was first described by John Nottingham.

Key points about keratoconus

• Keratoconus is a non-inflammatory, bilateral (but usually asymmetrical) disease of the cornea resulting in progressive corneal steepening
• It is characterised by paracentral corneal thinning and ectasia so that the cornea becomes cone like in shape.
• It first becomes evident at puberty, and then progresses until the third to fourth decade of life when it usually arrests. Sometimes, however, it may commence later in life and progress or arrest at any age.
• Risk factors: Atopic history, especially ocular allergies, rigid contact lens wear and vigorous eye rubbing. Repeated eye rubbing may cause progression of the disease.
• Symptoms: Initially, keratoconus may be asymptomatic, but significant vision loss occurs in advanced disease. The loss of vision is mainly due to myopia and irregular astigmatism and secondarily from corneal scarring.
• Diagnosis: Refraction, keratometry, corneal topography and slit- lamp (bio-microscopy) examination
• Commonly associated with vernal keratoconjunctivitis, retinitis pigmentosa, Leber congenital amaurosis, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Marfan syndromes, mitral valve prolapse, atopic dermatitis and Down syndrome.
• Treatment: Spectacle correction often helps in early stages; however, contact lenses (Rigid gas- permeable) may be required when irregular astigmatism develops.
• World Keratoconus Day is observed annually on November 10 to raise awareness about the condition. Since, eye rubbing is a risk factor, eye rubbing should be avoided. 

(Source: National Health Portal of India)

Dr KK Aggarwal

Padma Shri Awardee

President Confederation of Medical Associations in Asia and Oceania (CMAAO)

Group Editor-in-Chief IJCP Publications

President Heart Care Foundation of India

Past National President IMA