Keratoconus is a degenerative ocular disease where deterioration of the cornea causes thinning, brittleness, and a conical shape. As a result of this distortion in shape, light is unable to properly reach the retina, leading to impaired vision. In some cases, it leads to irregular astigmatism, as a result of two ocular curvatures.
Although there is no cure, there are several treatment options available, including various types of prescription contact lenses, a cross-linking procedure, surgical Intacs, and in severe cases, corneal transplant surgery.
Over the course of a patient’s life, some or all of these corrective measures may be implemented as the condition advances. Fortunately, with proper medical intervention, the risk of blindness is minimal. Nevertheless, as with all ocular disorders, appropriate care is critical to treat this condition and prevent deterioration. A comprehensive exam will enable the optometrist to make a diagnosis.
Although there is no definitive evidence of causation, studies strongly suggest that there may be a hereditary and genetic predisposition to this disorder:
As with many ocular disorders, signs present slowly and are hard to detect. Periodic comprehensive exams are critical for assessing vision changes, and monitoring and detecting progression of this ocular disease. Optometrists are able to identify indicators that go undetected by a layperson. The following signs may indicate the onset of this condition or other ocular disorder. Initial symptoms include:
One of the difficulties with this condition is that early signs can remain the same for years. During the earliest manifestation, interventions may include standard corrective lenses. Swelling is rare.
Diagnosing a patient requires comprehensive testing using the following diagnostic tools:
There are various options. As progression continues, treatment may include all or some of these options:
Cornea transplant: In advanced cases where contacts and glasses are no longer effective, a transplant may be necessary to replace damaged tissue. Frequently, contacts or glasses will be necessary post-surgery. Scleral lenses act as a new ocular surface when scarring or damage is extant. While surgeries are usually successful, risks include possible (albeit unlikely) rejection of tissue and infections. Post-surgical maintenance will monitor and treat these conditions, should they present.
Keratoconus is a degenerative, progressive, ocular disease where the cornea becomes thin, brittle, and cone-shaped, leading to distorted and blurred vision, and in some instances, irregular astigmatism. While there are no cures, there are effective interventions to treat the disorder and slow progression. With proper medical intervention, there is minimal risk of blindness.
Keratoconus management is critical because alterations in treatment plans will become necessary as the eye changes shape. Contact Amplify Eyecare today to find out more about this and other ocular disorders and to schedule a comprehensive exam if you haven't had one recently. You can schedule a comprehensive eye exam with our eye doctor by calling (661) 775-1860. With proper intervention, there are many options to slow down the progression of the disease and improve vision. Patients searching for advanced treatment for keratoconus visit our clinic from all over California, and we are proud to be a leading provider of medical eye care services for patients from Santa Clarita, Palmdale, Lancaster, and San Fernando Valley.
My eight year old daughter was terrified to go to the eye doctor for fear of her eyes being dilated. The doctor was SO KID friendly! He immediately made her comfortable by engaging her in conversation. It was a geat experience.
Dr. Garbus spent an amazing amount of time to solve my very complicated visual problems. Over the years he has continually achieved results beyond what others felt possible. He is always up to date on the latest science. He is great!
Family Vision Care Valencia makes it so easy. Staff is knows what they are doing and Dr. Garbus is thorough and kept me well informed during the exam.
I have been coming to Family Vision Center for almost 20 years. Dr. Garbus has been able to help my vision when other doctors could not. Now my kids see him as well. I highly recommend this office!
The Doctor is very good. I felt on this visit he seemed rushed. I had questions to ask him but he was already with another patient. I still do not know if my eyes are the same , worse, or better.
All the staff is friendly, helpful and knowledgeable, and has been for all the years I have been going there.
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