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Keratoconus

Keratoconus, is a degenerative eye condition in which the normally spherical dome-shaped cornea thins progressively causing a cone-likeshape to develop.

This causes significant error. There seems to be a genetic factor as it is more likely to be found in families where one member already suffers the condition.

These symptoms in the early stages cause blurring and distortion of vision and increased light sensitivity. These usually appear in the mid to late teens and early twenties and may progress for 15 to 20 years upon which time they tend to stabilize. Sometimes only one eye may be affected.

Spectacles or soft contact lenses can be used to correct the shortsight (myopia) and astigmatism caused in the early stages. As the condition progresses and the cornea continues to change shape and thin, hard gas permeable contact lenses areoften prescribed to correct vision more adequately.

In recent times there have been the development of new forms of refractive surgery involving inter corneal lens implants (INTACS) and also treatment with riboflavin drops in combination with UV light. (CR-3) giving hope to sufferers.

Back to refractive errors here

More on other eye problems here.

Return to home page of the laser eye surgery review from keratoconus here.