Keratoconus
Charakterystyka, pielęgnacja i opieka

Keratoconus to postępująca, niezapalna dystrofia rogówki charakteryzująca się jej ścieńczeniem i stożkowatym uwypukleniem, prowadzącym do zniekształcenia widzenia. Choroba rozpoczyna się zwykle w okresie dojrzewania i może progresować przez 10-20 lat. Wczesna diagnoza oraz regularne monitorowanie co 3-6 miesięcy są kluczowe dla oceny progresji i dostosowania terapii. Standardem leczenia postępującego keratoconusa jest sieciowanie włókien kolagenowych rogówki (CXL), które stabilizuje strukturę rogówki poprzez fotochemiczną reakcję ryboflawiny i światła UV, spowalniając lub zatrzymując postęp choroby. Korekcja wzroku zależy od zaawansowania – od okularów i miękkich soczewek kontaktowych w początkowych stadiach, po specjalistyczne soczewki gazoprzepuszczalne, hybrydowe lub skleralne w zaawansowanych przypadkach. W sytuacjach zbliznowaceń lub nietolerancji soczewek rozważa się przeszczep rogówki. Po zabiegach chirurgicznych konieczna jest odpowiednia opieka pooperacyjna, w tym stosowanie kropli, ochronnych osłon i unikanie kontaktu z wodą przez 48 godzin.

keratoconusie”>Opieka i pielęgnacja w keratoconusie

Keratoconus to postępująca, niezapalna choroba oka, w której rogówka (przezroczysta, przednia część oka) ulega stopniowemu ścieńczeniu i uwypukleniu, przyjmując kształt stożka. Prowadzi to do zniekształcenia widzenia i może znacząco wpłynąć na jakość życia pacjenta. Właściwa opieka nad pacjentami z keratoconusem wymaga kompleksowego podejścia, koncentrującego się zarówno na spowolnieniu progresji choroby, jak i poprawie widzenia.12

Wczesna diagnoza i monitorowanie

Kluczowym elementem skutecznej opieki w keratoconusie jest wczesna diagnoza i regularne monitorowanie stanu pacjenta. Choroba zazwyczaj rozpoczyna się w okresie dojrzewania lub wczesnej dorosłości i może postępować przez 10-20 lat, zanim się ustabilizuje. Wykrycie keratoconusu we wczesnym stadium umożliwia wdrożenie leczenia, które może spowolnić lub zatrzymać progresję choroby.12

Pacjenci powinni regularnie odbywać wizyty kontrolne u okulisty, co jest kluczowe dla oceny procesu gojenia i dostosowania stosowanych leków. Zaleca się wizyty kontrolne co 3-6 miesięcy w celu monitorowania progresji ścieńczenia i uwypuklenia rogówki oraz wynikających z tego zmian w widzeniu. Jest to szczególnie ważne u pacjentów używających soczewek kontaktowych, które mogą powodować powikłania, takie jak hipoksja czy olbrzymiobrodawkowe zapalenie spojówek.12

Metody leczenia keratoconusu

Leczenie keratoconusu zależy od stadium zaawansowania choroby i tempa jej progresji. Generalnie istnieją dwa podejścia do leczenia: spowolnienie progresji choroby oraz poprawa widzenia.1

Spowolnienie progresji choroby

Jeśli keratoconus postępuje, może być zalecane sieciowanie włókien kolagenowych rogówki (corneal collagen cross-linking, CXL). Ta procedura ma na celu stabilizację struktury rogówki i jest jedynym zabiegiem, który może spowolnić lub zatrzymać postęp choroby.12

Podczas zabiegu CXL rogówka jest nasycana ryboflawiną (witamina B2) w postaci kropli do oczu, a następnie poddawana działaniu światła ultrafioletowego. Procedura ta wzmacnia włókna kolagenu w rogówce, zapobiegając dalszemu wybrzuszaniu się i zniekształcaniu. CXL jest uważane za standard opieki na całym świecie w leczeniu postępującego keratoconusu.12

Poprawa widzenia

Poprawa widzenia zależy od stopnia zaawansowania keratoconusu. Lagodny do umiarkowanego keratoconus można leczyć za pomocą okularów lub soczewek kontaktowych:1

  • W początkowych stadiach choroby widzenie można skorygować za pomocą standardowych okularów lub miękkich soczewek kontaktowych1
  • Wraz z postępem choroby pacjenci mogą wymagać specjalnie dopasowanych soczewek kontaktowych, takich jak sztywne gazoprzepuszczalne, hybrydowe lub skleralne12

Soczewki skleralne są często najlepszą opcją dla pacjentów z umiarkowanym do zaawansowanego keratoconusu. Spoczywają one na twardówce (białej części oka) i tworzą zbiornik łez nad rogówką, zapewniając gładką powierzchnię optyczną i minimalizując dyskomfort poprzez zmniejszenie nacisku na rogówkę.12

U niektórych osób z keratoconusem rogówka w zaawansowanym stadium choroby może ulec zbliznowaceniu lub noszenie soczewek kontaktowych staje się trudne. W takich przypadkach może być konieczny przeszczep rogówki.12

Opieka pooperacyjna

Po zabiegach chirurgicznych związanych z keratoconusem, takich jak sieciowanie włókien kolagenowych czy przeszczep rogówki, pacjenci wymagają odpowiedniej opieki pooperacyjnej:1

  • Pacjentom często zaleca się stosowanie opatrunkowej soczewki kontaktowej w celu ochrony rogówki1
  • Należy regularnie stosować krople zgodnie z zaleceniami lekarza1
  • W nocy należy nosić ochronne osłony na oczy, szczególnie jeśli pacjent ma założoną soczewkę kontaktową1
  • Należy unikać kontaktu operowanego oka z wodą przez 48 godzin po zabiegu1
  • Po zabiegu przeszczepu rogówki okulista prawdopodobnie będzie chciał zobaczyć pacjenta następnego dnia w celu sprawdzenia stanu oczu1

Suche oko jest częstym tymczasowym powikłaniem po zabiegach chirurgicznych. Pacjentom zaleca się stosowanie sztucznych łez 4-6 razy dziennie (między innymi kroplami) przez pierwsze 6 tygodni, aby zapobiec wysuszeniu.1

Zalecenia dotyczące stylu życia

Oprócz leczenia medycznego, istnieją również zalecenia dotyczące stylu życia, które mogą pomóc w zarządzaniu objawami keratoconusu:1

  • Unikanie pocierania oczu – Pocieranie oczu może nasilać ścieńczenie i zniekształcenie rogówki powodowane przez keratoconus. Jeśli oczy są podrażnione lub swędzące, lepiej użyć kropli nawilżających zamiast je pocierać12
  • Ochrona oczu przed szkodliwym promieniowaniem UV – Noszenie okularów przeciwsłonecznych z ochroną UV, nawet w pochmurne dni, może pomóc zminimalizować ekspozycję na promieniowanie UV12
  • Zdrowa dieta i regularne ćwiczenia – Żywność bogata w antyoksydanty i kwasy tłuszczowe omega-3, takie jak owoce, warzywa, ryby i orzechy, może pomóc wzmocnić tkanki oka. Regularne ćwiczenia mogą poprawić krążenie krwi, co może pomóc odżywić rogówkę i inne części oka1

Dostosowania w codziennym życiu

Keratoconus może wpłynąć na codzienne życie pacjenta, dlatego ważne jest wprowadzenie odpowiednich dostosowań:1

  • W szkole – Uczniowie mogą potrzebować dostosowań, takich jak: materiały dydaktyczne w większej czcionce, miejsca bliżej tablicy, dobre oświetlenie, dodatkowy czas na egzaminach, używanie urządzenia powiększającego, słuchanie wersji audio materiałów do czytania1
  • W pracy – Pracownicy mogą potrzebować: pozwolenia na noszenie czapki lub okularów przeciwsłonecznych w pomieszczeniach, większej kontroli nad oświetleniem w miejscu pracy, możliwości pracy z domu1

Wsparcie psychologiczne

Życie z przewlekłą chorobą, jaką jest keratoconus, może być stresujące i emocjonalnie trudne. Ważne jest, aby znaleźć wsparcie psychologiczne i emocjonalne:1

  • Znalezienie grupy wsparcia dla osób z keratoconusem może pomóc w radzeniu sobie z emocjonalnymi wyzwaniami1
  • Organizacje takie jak National Keratoconus Foundation mogą dostarczyć informacji i wsparcia osobom żyjącym z keratoconusem1
  • Priorytetowe traktowanie zdrowia psychicznego i emocjonalnego1

Rola interdyscyplinarnego zespołu w opiece nad pacjentem z keratoconusem

Opieka nad pacjentem z keratoconusem wymaga zaangażowania interdyscyplinarnego zespołu specjalistów, którzy współpracują, aby zapewnić kompleksowe leczenie i wsparcie.12

Specjaliści zaangażowani w opiekę

W opiekę nad pacjentem z keratoconusem zaangażowanych jest wielu specjalistów:1

  • Okulista specjalizujący się w chorobach rogówki – Przeprowadza diagnostykę, monitoruje progresję choroby, wykonuje zabiegi chirurgiczne, takie jak sieciowanie włókien kolagenowych czy przeszczep rogówki1
  • Optometrysta – Dopasowuje specjalistyczne soczewki kontaktowe, monitoruje stan oczu, edukuje pacjenta na temat pielęgnacji soczewek1
  • Pielęgniarka okulistyczna – Wspiera pacjenta w procesie leczenia, edukuje na temat stosowania leków, pomaga w opiece pooperacyjnej1
  • Opiekun domowy – W przypadku znacznego upośledzenia widzenia może być potrzebny opiekun, który pomoże w codziennych czynnościach, zapewni transport do lekarza, pomoże w zakupach1

Edukacja pacjenta

Edukacja pacjenta jest kluczowym elementem opieki w keratoconusie. Pacjent powinien zostać poinformowany o:12

  • Naturze choroby, jej progresji i możliwych komplikacjach1
  • Dostępnych metodach leczenia i ich ograniczeniach1
  • Właściwej pielęgnacji soczewek kontaktowych – pacjent powinien być nauczony, jak prawidłowo zakładać, zdejmować i czyścić soczewki1
  • Objawach, które wymagają natychmiastowej konsultacji z lekarzem, takich jak: zaczerwienienie, wrażliwość na światło, utrata lub pogorszenie widzenia, ból1

Indywidualizacja opieki

Keratoconus wpływa na każdą osobę inaczej, dlatego kluczowe jest zindywidualizowane podejście do opieki nad pacjentem:12

  • Plan leczenia powinien być dostosowany do stadium choroby, tempa jej progresji oraz indywidualnych potrzeb pacjenta1
  • Należy wziąć pod uwagę styl życia pacjenta, jego pracę, zainteresowania i codzienne aktywności1
  • Regularne wizyty kontrolne pozwalają monitorować potencjalną progresję i dostosowywać opiekę w miarę potrzeb, aby zoptymalizować widzenie i zdrowie pacjenta1

Opieka nad pacjentem z soczewkami kontaktowymi

Soczewki kontaktowe są podstawową metodą korekcji widzenia w leczeniu keratoconusu. Odpowiednia opieka nad pacjentem używającym soczewek kontaktowych jest kluczowa dla zapewnienia optymalnych efektów leczenia i zapobiegania powikłaniom.12

Dobór i dopasowanie soczewek kontaktowych

Pacjenci z keratoconusem powinni mieć soczewki kontaktowe dopasowane przez okulistę z doświadczeniem w leczeniu tej choroby. Właściwe dopasowanie soczewek jest kluczowe, ponieważ źle dopasowana soczewka może uszkodzić rogówkę.12

Proces dopasowania soczewek obejmuje:1

  • Wykonanie topograficznej mapy rogówki pacjenta1
  • Zaprojektowanie i wykonanie niestandardowych soczewek, co może zająć kilka tygodni1
  • Nauczenie pacjenta, jak dbać o nowe soczewki1

Rodzaje soczewek kontaktowych stosowanych w keratoconusie

W zależności od stadium keratoconusu, mogą być stosowane różne rodzaje soczewek kontaktowych:12

  • Standardowe miękkie soczewki – Mają ograniczone zastosowanie w keratoconusie, głównie w początkowych stadiach1
  • Niestandardowe miękkie soczewki – Toczne soczewki wykonane na zamówienie, które mają zastosowanie w korekcji keratoconusu1
  • Sztywne soczewki gazoprzepuszczalne (RGP) – Były podstawą leczenia keratoconusu przez dziesięciolecia1
  • Soczewki hybrydowe – Mają sztywne centrum połączone z miękkim brzegiem1
  • Soczewki skleralne – Preferowane w przypadku umiarkowanego do zaawansowanego keratoconusu. Spoczywają na twardówce i tworzą zbiornik łez nad rogówką12

Pielęgnacja soczewek kontaktowych

Właściwa pielęgnacja soczewek kontaktowych jest kluczowa dla zapewnienia ich skuteczności i zapobiegania powikłaniom. Pacjenci powinni być edukowani w zakresie:1

  • Prawidłowego zakładania i zdejmowania soczewek1
  • Czyszczenia i przechowywania soczewek zgodnie z zaleceniami producenta1
  • Rozpoznawania objawów powikłań, takich jak zaczerwienienie, ból, pogorszenie widzenia1
  • Konieczności regularnych wizyt kontrolnych co 4-6 miesięcy, nawet przy braku objawów, aby szybko reagować na zmiany dopasowania lub właściwości optycznych soczewek1

Monitorowanie i regularne kontrole

Pacjenci z keratoconusem, szczególnie ci noszący soczewki kontaktowe, powinni być regularnie monitorowani. Zaleca się wizyty kontrolne co najmniej co 6 miesięcy, aby upewnić się, że nie nastąpiły zmiany w rogówce lub soczewce kontaktowej.12

Podczas wizyt kontrolnych okulista:12

  • Ocenia stan rogówki i ewentualne oznaki progresji choroby1
  • Sprawdza dopasowanie soczewek kontaktowych1
  • Dostosowuje plan leczenia w zależności od potrzeb1
  • Wykrywa bezobjawowe powikłania i wczesną nietolerancję soczewek1

Wyzwania i rosnące standardy opieki w keratoconusie

W ostatnich latach nastąpił znaczący postęp w opiece nad pacjentami z keratoconusem, jednak wciąż istnieją pewne wyzwania i obszary wymagające poprawy.12

Wyzwania w opiece nad pacjentem z keratoconusem

Opieka nad pacjentem z keratoconusem może napotykać następujące wyzwania:12

  • Dostęp do specjalistycznego sprzętu – Nie wszyscy specjaliści mają dostęp do topografu rogówki (13,5%) i zestawów do dopasowywania sztywnych soczewek kontaktowych1
  • Luki w wiedzy – Jedna trzecia specjalistów nie uważa, że retinoskopia, objawy w lampie szczelinowej i topografia rogówki są ważnymi badaniami w diagnostyce keratoconusu1
  • Brak standardów opieki – Obecnie brak jest standardów opieki dotyczących zaleceń dotyczących różnych soczewek kontaktowych na różnych etapach keratoconusu1
  • Ograniczony dostęp do sieciowania włókien kolagenowych (CXL) – Niewielu specjalistów podstawowej opieki okulistycznej (15,4%) wykonuje tę procedurę1

Rosnące standardy opieki

Mimo wyzwań, standardy opieki w keratoconusie stale się rozwijają:12

  • Wczesna diagnoza – Kluczowe znaczenie ma wczesne wykrycie choroby, co umożliwia wczesną interwencję i potencjalne zapobieganie progresji1
  • Regularne monitorowanie – Częste badania kontrolne są niezbędne do oceny progresji choroby i dostosowania leczenia1
  • Zatrzymanie progresji – Sieciowanie włókien kolagenowych stało się standardem opieki w leczeniu postępującego keratoconusu1
  • Poprawa widzenia – Zaawansowane technologie soczewek kontaktowych, takie jak soczewki skleralne, zapewniają lepszą korekcję widzenia1

Współpraca interdyscyplinarna

Skuteczna opieka nad pacjentem z keratoconusem wymaga współpracy między różnymi specjalistami:12

  • 58% specjalistów zgłasza współpracę z okulistami w leczeniu pacjentów z keratoconusem1
  • Optometrzyści odgrywają centralną rolę w diagnostyce keratoconusu, leczeniu i poradnictwie dla pacjentów1
  • Istnieje potrzeba większej współpracy interdyscyplinarnej między okulistami a innymi specjalistami opieki okulistycznej, aby poprawić wyniki widzenia u pacjentów z keratoconusem1

Edukacja i szkolenia specjalistów

Aby poprawić opiekę nad pacjentami z keratoconusem, konieczne jest ciągłe kształcenie i szkolenie specjalistów:12

  • Luki w wiedzy i praktyce klinicznej mogą być wykorzystane przez instytucje szkoleniowe i stowarzyszenia zawodowe do przeglądu obecnych programów nauczania i ustanowienia krajowych standardów zarówno dla edukacji podstawowej, jak i kształcenia ustawicznego1
  • Odpowiednie zainteresowane strony mogą współpracować w celu opracowania wytycznych dotyczących diagnostyki i leczenia keratoconusu dla praktyki klinicznej zarówno w sektorze prywatnym, jak i publicznym1
  • Specjaliści podstawowej opieki okulistycznej odgrywają istotną rolę we wczesnym wykrywaniu chorób i patologii oczu. Keratoconus może być podejrzewany u pacjentów z czynnikami ryzyka lub gdy podczas badania oka stwierdza się określone objawy kliniczne1

Podsumowanie

Opieka nad pacjentem z keratoconusem wymaga kompleksowego podejścia, które obejmuje wczesną diagnostykę, regularne monitorowanie, leczenie mające na celu zatrzymanie progresji choroby oraz poprawę widzenia. Kluczowe znaczenie ma indywidualizacja opieki, edukacja pacjenta oraz współpraca interdyscyplinarna między specjalistami.12

Choć keratoconus nie ma obecnie leku, jest schorzeniem, które można skutecznie leczyć. Dzięki odpowiedniej opiece, pacjenci z keratoconusem mogą prowadzić pełne i satysfakcjonujące życie, z minimalnym wpływem choroby na codzienne funkcjonowanie.12

Postępy w diagnostyce obrazowej i terapii już zmieniły paradygmat opieki w keratoconusie na lepsze, umożliwiając wcześniejszą diagnozę i bardziej skuteczne leczenie. Dalsze badania i rozwój nowych technologii z pewnością przyczynią się do jeszcze lepszych wyników leczenia w przyszłości.1

Kolejne rozdziały

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Wybierz kolejny rozdział z menu poniżej, aby otworzyć nową podstronę kompedium wiedzy i uzyskać szczegółowe informację o leku, substancji lub chorobie.

  1. 10.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Keratoconus – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470435/
    Keratoconus is a progressive bilateral corneal ectatic disorder characterized by cone-like steepening of the cornea, irregular stromal thinning, and significant vision loss. […] Initial treatment options for keratoconus, personalized for each patient, include prescription spectacles, rigid gas-permeable contact lenses, and collagen cross-linking, which, if administered early, may slow or halt disease progression. […] This activity also provides healthcare professionals with essential knowledge and tools to mitigate morbidity and enhance the overall quality of life for affected patients. […] Patients must avoid rubbing their eyes to help control the disease. […] A general overview of postoperative and rehabilitative care for patients with keratoconus undergoing surgical interventions is mentioned below.
  • #1 Keratoconus | Changes in Vision | Crosslinking | iLink Corneal Cross-linking | Intacs | Eye Surgeon | Annapolis MD
    https://www.chesapeakeeyecare.com/services/keratoconus-disease
    Keratoconus typically first appears in individuals who are in their late teens or early twenties, and may progress for 10-20 years and then slow or stabilize. […] Patients who have been diagnosed with progressive keratoconus or corneal ectasia following refractive surgery should ask their doctor about iLink corneal cross-linking. […] Our practice is proud to offer patients the first and only FDA-approved therapeutic solution for the treatment of progressive keratoconus. Now, patients who once had little to no therapeutic option to treat keratoconus have the opportunity to slow or halt the progression of this sight-threatening disease. […] Dr. Dryjski is one of the few doctors in our area who specializes in iLink corneal cross-linking and she will work closely with you to figure out the best plan for your Keratoconus treatment.
  • #1 Keratoconus – EyeWiki
    https://eyewiki.org/Keratoconus
    Since the availability of corneal collagen crosslinking, patients are usually followed on a 3- to 6-month basis to monitor the progression of the corneal thinning and steepening and the resultant visual changes. […] The majority of patients with keratoconus can be fitted with contact lenses and their vision significantly improves. […] When patients become intolerant or no longer benefit from contact lenses, surgery is the next option. […] Following any corneal surgical procedure, patients need to be followed to complete visual rehabilitation.
  • #1 Keratoconus – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/keratoconus/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351357
    Our caring team of Mayo Clinic experts can help you with your keratoconus-related health concerns […] Treatment for keratoconus depends on the severity of the condition and how quickly the condition is progressing. Generally, there are two approaches to treating keratoconus: slowing the progression of the disease and improving vision. […] If keratoconus is progressing, corneal collagen cross-linking may be recommended to slow it or stop it from getting worse. This treatment aims to stabilize the structure of the cornea. […] Improving vision depends on the severity of keratoconus. Mild to moderate keratoconus can be treated with eyeglasses or contact lenses. […] In some people with keratoconus, the cornea becomes scarred with advanced disease. For others, wearing contact lenses becomes difficult. In these people, cornea transplant surgery might be necessary.
  • #1 Keratoconus | Changes in Vision | Crosslinking | iLink Corneal Cross-linking | Intacs | Eye Surgeon | Elkridge MD | Towson MD
    https://www.select-eyecare.com/services/keratoconus-disease
    Keratoconus, often referred to as KC, is a non-inflammatory eye condition in which the typically round dome-shaped cornea progressively thins and weakens, causing the development of a cone-like bulge and optical irregularity of the cornea. This causes static in your vision and can result in significant visual impairment. […] Dr. Samantha Williamson and the team at Select Eye Care have treatment options available, including iLink corneal cross-linking, to defer the need for a corneal transplant and have produced successful results for our patients. […] iLink corneal cross-linking is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that combines the use of ultraviolet light and specially formulated eye drops to stiffen and strengthen corneas that have been weakened by disease or refractive surgery. Cross-linking is considered the standard of care around the world for progressive keratoconus and corneal ectasia following refractive surgery.
  • #1 Keratoconus: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14415-keratoconus
    In the early stages of the disease, you can correct vision with normal eyeglasses or soft contact lenses. As keratoconus gets worse, eyeglasses may not correct your vision because of the amount of irregular astigmatism. You may need a special type of hard contact lens. […] Corneal crosslinking uses ultraviolet (UV) light treatment that may slow or stop the keratoconus from getting worse. […] Your provider may suggest that you have a cornea transplant if you have keratoconus that’s advanced. They’ll replace your diseased cornea with corneal tissue from a human donor. […] Your recovery time for keratoconus treatment varies by the type of treatment. It can take days for some treatments and much longer for others. […] You should always contact your eye care provider when you have changes in vision. If you have keratoconus, you’ll probably need to see your provider on a regular basis. Keep your appointments.
  • #1 THE CONTINUUM OF CARE FOR KERATOCONUS | Contact Lens Spectrum
    https://clspectrum.com/issues/2018/february/the-continuum-of-care-for-keratoconus/
    Contact lenses are still the primary vision correction modality in the management of keratoconus. […] The three keys to contact lens success are vision, comfort, and physiological response. […] A number of contact lens management options are available today. […] Standard soft lenses, typically soft torics, have very limited application in keratoconus. […] An increasing number of lathe-cut custom soft lenses have indications for keratoconus correction. […] More recently, some companies have developed very thick soft lenses to mimic the properties of GP lenses for keratoconic eyes. […] Corneal GP lenses were the mainstay for keratoconus management for decades. […] Sometimes a soft lens or a corneal GP lens alone will not provide adequate vision or comfort. […] Hybrid contact lenses have a GP center bonded to a soft skirt.
  • #1
    https://www.blakebushfamilyeyecare.com/keratoconus-diagnosis-and-treatment-ardmore-ok
    Treatment for keratoconus depends on the severity of your condition and how quickly the condition is progressing. The goal of treatment is to slow the progression of the disease and to improve your vision. […] In the early stages of keratoconus, your vision can often be corrected with glasses or soft contact lenses. […] As keratoconus progresses, specially fitted contacts might be needed to provide better vision. These lenses include gas permeable lenses, hybrid lenses or scleral lenses. […] For most people with keratoconus, a scleral lens is the best treatment option for better vision. A scleral lens is a large diameter gas permeable lens that covers the entire cornea and sits on the less sensitive part of the eye called the sclera. This design provides a smooth refracting surface and minimizes discomfort by reducing pressure on the cornea.
  • #1 Keratoconus – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470435/
    Postoperative care: Patients are often advised to use a bandage contact lens to protect their cornea. […] Patients should regularly schedule visits with an ophthalmologist, which is crucial for assessing the healing process and adjusting medications as needed. […] Rehabilitation: Patients may require eyeglasses or special contact lenses to correct refractive errors as the cornea heals. […] Deterrence and patient education are pivotal in managing this progressive eye disorder. […] Through regular monitoring, lifestyle modifications, and comprehensive patient education, the progression of the disease can be slowed or halted, contributing to a higher quality of life. […] A strategic approach is essential to ensure early screening for patients at risk of keratoconus and regular monitoring for those diagnosed with the condition to prevent disease progression.
  • #1 Keratoconus Aftercare
    https://www.centreforsight.com/treatments/keratonocus/keratoconus-aftercare
    Keratoconus Aftercare […] You MUST NOT take both Co-Codamol and Paracetamol (Co-Codamol contains Paracetamol) […] Take your drops regularly […] Wear your protective eye shields at bedtime while you have a contact lens in place […] Don’t rub your eyes […] Allow water to enter your operated eye for 48 hours […] Temporary Dry eye is not uncommon following surgery. You will be dispensed samples of Artificial Tears, please use these 4-6 times daily (between other drops) for the first 6 weeks to prevent drying. […] Problems are rare, however in the event you have any of the following: Redness, Sensitivity to light, Vision loss or reduction, Pain please contact Centre for Sight right away on 0808 271 9706.
  • #1 Keratoconus 101: Treatment Options and Post-Treatment Care | glaukos-ilink.comCloseClose primary navigation iconShow navigation icon
    https://www.glaukos-ilink.com/blogs/keratoconus-101-treatment-options-and-post-treatment-care/
    It’s important to ask your doctor what you can expect from each treatment and how to take care of yourself afterward. […] After corneal transplant surgery, your ophthalmologist will likely want to see you the day after to check your eyes. […] As you recover from surgery, it’s important to adhere to the following: Make sure to use eye drops as prescribed. […] Hopefully, after gaining more knowledge of keratoconus treatment options and post-treatment care and maintenance, you’re feeling more comfortable taking the next step in your KC Journey!
  • #1  Living with Keratoconus: Tips for Managing Daily Life
    https://www.parksideeyecare.com/blog/living-with-keratoconus-tips-for-managing-daily-life.html
    Although keratoconus can be challenging to manage, there are several strategies and tips for managing keratoconus that can significantly improve your quality of life. The first step in managing keratoconus is getting a proper diagnosis and following the recommended treatment plan. Regular eye check-ups are crucial as the condition progresses over time. […] Aside from medical treatments, practicing good eye hygiene can also help manage the symptoms of keratoconus. This includes avoiding eye rubbing, protecting your eyes from the sun, and using lubricating eye drops to soothe irritated eyes. […] Adopting certain lifestyle changes can help manage the symptoms of keratoconus and slow its progression. One of the most important lifestyle changes is protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays. Wearing sunglasses with UV protection, even on cloudy days, can help minimize UV exposure.
  • #1  Living with Keratoconus: Tips for Managing Daily Life
    https://www.parksideeyecare.com/blog/living-with-keratoconus-tips-for-managing-daily-life.html
    Another crucial change is to avoid rubbing your eyes. Eye rubbing can exacerbate the corneal thinning and distortion caused by keratoconus. If your eyes are irritated or itchy, it’s better to use lubricating eye drops instead of rubbing them. […] A healthy diet and regular exercise are also beneficial for overall eye health. Foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, such as fruits, vegetables, fish, and nuts, can help strengthen your eye tissues. Regular exercise can improve blood circulation, which can help nourish the cornea and other parts of the eye. […] Living with keratoconus can be challenging, but with the right strategies, lifestyle changes, and medical care, it’s possible to manage the condition and maintain a good quality of life. Remember, it’s essential to have regular eye examinations, follow your eye care professional’s advice, and take good care of your eyes.
  • #1  Living with Keratoconus: Tips for Managing Daily Life
    https://www.parksideeyecare.com/blog/living-with-keratoconus-tips-for-managing-daily-life.html
    Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder that results in the distortion of the cornea, the clear, outermost layer of the eye. This distortion is caused by a weakening of the corneal tissue that leads to a cone-like bulge. The change in corneal shape disrupts the focusing ability of the eye, leading to significant visual impairment. […] The symptoms of keratoconus can have a significant impact on daily life. The most common symptom is a gradual decrease in vision quality, which can affect both near and distance vision. This can make everyday tasks, such as reading, driving, or watching television, more challenging. […] Living with these symptoms can be frustrating and can negatively impact quality of life. It can lead to difficulties in performing daily tasks and affect one’s ability to work or study. Additionally, the constant changes in vision can lead to eyestrain and headaches, adding to the daily challenges of living with this condition.
  • #1 Keratoconus: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
    https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/eye-health-keratoconus
    Keratoconus Self-Care If you have keratoconus, it’s important to avoid rubbing your eyes. This can cause further damage to the cornea. If your eyes itch, talk to your doctor about medication to help. You may have allergies that need treatment. […] If you’re a student, you may need to ask for accommodations to deal with your keratoconus. They could include: Asking for classroom handouts in a larger font, or handout versions of slide presentations, Moving closer to the front of the classroom to see presentations more clearly, Choosing a seat with good lighting, avoiding glare from windows, Using a small reading lamp at your desk, Requesting extra time in exams, Using a handheld magnifying device, Listening to audio versions of assigned reading material, Increasing the font size and contrast on your computer screen.
  • #1 Keratoconus: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
    https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/eye-health-keratoconus
    Keratoconus also can affect you at work, and you may need to ask your employer for accommodations. They could include: Being allowed to wear a hat or sunglasses indoors to reduce glare, Seeking more control over the lighting at your workstation to reduce glare and flickering, Asking to work from home so that you can control your environment more effectively.
  • #1 Coping with Keratoconus: Strategies for Managing Common Symptoms | Cornea & Laser Eye Institute
    https://www.vision-institute.com/coping-with-keratoconus-strategies-for-managing-common-symptoms/
    Coping with keratoconus can be challenging, but its important to find ways to manage your symptoms and maintain your quality of life. […] Dealing with a chronic health condition like keratoconus can be stressful and emotionally challenging. […] The National Keratoconus Foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides information and support to individuals living with keratoconus. […] By working closely with a specialist like those at The CLEI Center for Keratoconus, finding ways to cope, taking care of your mental health, and utilizing resources like the National Keratoconus Foundation, you can live a fulfilling and meaningful life with keratoconus.
  • #1 Living With Keratoconus | Tips For Managing Daily Life
    https://www.vision-institute.com/living-with-keratoconus-tips-for-managing-daily-life/
    Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease. […] As the disease progresses, and higher order aberrations (visual static) develop, increased visual distortions can interfere with daily activities including watching television, reading small print, driving, and even recognizing faces. […] At the CLEI Center for Keratoconus, we are dedicated to improving not only our patients vision, but also their quality of life. […] Not all eye doctors have experience treating keratoconus. For this reason, seeking out an eye doctor who specializes in the condition is critical if you want to achieve the best possible visual outcomes and quality of life. […] The CLEI Center for Keratoconus is recognized globally as the leader in keratoconus treatment. […] Its important to give priority to your mental and emotional wellbeing. […] Resources like the National Keratoconus Foundation, mentioned earlier, can be highly beneficial. […] Although keratoconus does not currently have a cure, it is a manageable condition. […] By doing so, you can manage your condition and still live your very best life.
  • #1 Advancing state-of-the-art keratoconus care | AOA
    https://www.aoa.org/news/clinical-eye-care/diseases-and-conditions/advancing-keratoconus-care
    Today, in addition to corneal GPs, practitioners can tailor their care using scleral or hybrid contact lenses, custom soft contact lenses, or „piggyback-fit” contact lenses before considering surgical interventions. […] However, it extends beyond contact lenses. Optometry plays a central role in keratoconus diagnosis, management and patient counseling. […] As clinical understanding of keratoconus undergoes tremendous change, it’s vital to know how important early diagnosis and management options can be in dramatically impacting patients’ visual function, Dr. Eiden says. […] „It’s our goal that this course will address all of these factors and lay a framework for better understanding of the disease, technologies to make early diagnosis, and management in terms of disease progression control and improvement in vision,” Dr. Eiden says.
  • #1 Diagnosis and management of keratoconus by eye care practitioners in Kenya | BMC Ophthalmology | Full Text
    https://bmcophthalmol.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12886-023-02792-w
    Nonsurgical management is with spectacles in mild cases, specialized soft and rigid contact lenses (CL) in moderate cases and hybrid/scleral CLs in severe cases. […] Surgical options include intra-stromal corneal ring segments (ICRS), corneal cross-linking (CXL) and corneal transplants. […] CXL is the only treatment available to halt progression and is contraindicated in corneas <400 m in thickness. [...] Hence it is important to diagnose keratoconic patients early, monitor corneal thickness on a regular basis and refer for CXL when appropriate. [...] The majority of eye care services in Kenya are provided by MLOWs, who are the ophthalmic clinical officers (OCOs) and optometrists. [...] They could play a critical role in the diagnosis and management of keratoconus. [...] The optometrists are restricted to prescribing lubricants and anti-allergy eye drops and do not perform any surgeries, whilst OCOs do not have any restrictions in prescribing eye medication and can perform eye surgeries, including CXL, depending on their respective levels of training and qualifications.
  • #1 Keratoconus – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/keratoconus/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351357
    If you’re using rigid or scleral contact lenses, make sure to have them fitted by an eye doctor with experience in treating keratoconus. You’ll also need to have regular checkups to determine whether the lenses still fit well. An ill-fitting lens can damage the cornea. […] Surgery may be necessary if there is corneal scarring, extreme thinning of the cornea, poor vision with the strongest prescription lenses or an inability to wear any type of contact lenses. […] Cornea transplant for keratoconus generally is very successful. Possible complications include graft rejection, poor vision, infection and astigmatism. […] If your eye doctor determines that you might have keratoconus, you may be referred to an ophthalmologist who has had special training in corneal disease and surgery. A trained ophthalmologist can interpret corneal imaging studies and determine if you need cross-linking or a cornea transplant.
  • #1 Keratoconus – Education, Diagnosis & Treatment-KeratoconusDoctors.com
    https://keratoconusdoctors.com/keratoconus/
    Keratoconus experts agree contact lenses are the treatment of choice for keratoconus. […] At Total Eye Care, our keratoconus experts find that over 90% of patients their patients are successfully treated with contact lenses. Scleral contact lenses give the most consistently reliable results with excellent vision and comfort. […] Scleral contacts have made a resurgence in eye care and are now the treatment of choice amongst leading keratoconus specialists. […] Scleral contacts are fully customizable. In addition to excellent comfort, scleral contacts also provide the best visual acuity of all of the keratoconus treatment options. […] At Total Eye Care, our keratoconus specialists have a great deal of experience in fitting patients with advanced contact lens designs. […] The keratoconus lens fitting involves making a topographical map of your cornea.
  • #1
    https://umiamihealth.org/en/bascom-palmer-eye-institute/specialties/corneal-and-external-diseases/keratoconus
    When you have a rare eye condition, you need the best care. Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, part of the University of Miami Health System, is backed by a team of 1,300 eye experts, the most advanced technology, pioneering research and medical education. […] Eyeglasses If your disease is not severe, your eye doctor may recommend eye drops or ointment to reduce the swelling in your eye. […] Corneal Collagen Cross-linking (CXL) – This new outpatient treatment stabilizes the cornea, helps preserve vision and may prevent a corneal transplant. […] Compassionate, Supportive Care. When you struggle with a rare eye disorder, its natural to be worried and frustrated. Keratoconus is often misdiagnosed and its symptoms can mimic other conditions. You not only need excellent medical care, you need compassionate support from your eye care team. We coordinate every aspect of your care. Our ophthalmologists and other eye care professionals listen to your concerns and address them professionally and compassionately.
  • #1 Keratoconus Care, Caregiver | In-Home, Home Care, Live-In, Services, Agency Solutions
    https://www.liveinhomecare.com/care2/keratoconus-care/
    Keratoconus Care, Caregiver | In-Home, Home Care, Live-In, Services, Agency Solutions […] A visual impairment caused by keratoconus can place limitations on your loved ones ability to function independently. […] However, FCP Live-Ins Keratoconus Care can help your loved one navigate through the difficulties of the eye condition. […] FCP Live-In provides quality, affordable care in the comfort and security of our clients home. […] If your loved one has a visual impairment because of keratoconus, FCP Live-In caregivers can help with your loved ones ability to carry out daily tasks. The services FCP Live-In provide allows our clients to live successfully in their own home. […] FCP Live-In assists people in any stage of keratoconus. Our caregivers provide transportation to doctor appointments and run errands for our clients who are not able to drive. We offer other services that help our clients function successfully on a daily basis in the security and comfort of their homes.
  • #1 Keratoconus FAQs | Optometrists in Indiana, US | Yaryan Eye Care Center
    https://www.yaryaneyecare.com/keratoconus-faqs
    Keratoconus is a disease that affects the cornea in the eye. It causes the cornea to become misshapen and thinned out. If left untreated for long enough, the cornea will essentially be destroyed and a corneal transplant will be necessary. […] There are multiple treatment options for keratoconus. As long as the cornea has not yet been severely damaged, we will prescribe you specialized contact lenses. The lenses that are best for keratoconus include scleral contacts, rigid gas-permeable lenses, and hybrid contact lenses. If your cornea has been severely damaged, contact lenses will not help. We will give you a referral to a leading ophthalmologist for corneal replacement surgery. […] If you suspect that you may have keratoconus, you need to make an appointment with an optometrist as soon as possible. The condition will only get worse if you do not get treatment from an eye doctor. When you come in for your appointment, an eye doctor from our team will examine your eyes to determine if you do have keratoconus. If you do, we will come up with an effective treatment plan.
  • #1 Keratoconus – Education, Diagnosis & Treatment-KeratoconusDoctors.com
    https://keratoconusdoctors.com/keratoconus/
    After the eye exam, we will make a topographical map of your eye. […] It takes a few weeks to have these custom lenses designed and made. […] When we receive the lenses we will call you to schedule a time to teach you how to care for your new lenses. […] In most cases, the cornea will stabilize by the mid 30s. The vast majority of patients are best treated with the scleral contact lenses. […] Some patients; however, may benefit from corneal cross-linking followed by scleral contact lenses. […] The newest development in the surgical treatment of keratoconus is corneal cross-linking (CXL). […] After cross-linking patients are then fit with scleral contact lenses to further improve their visual acuity and quality of life. […] Some vision plans have a benefit for contact lenses used to treat keratoconus called Medically Necessary Contact Lenses.
  • #1 Keratoconus Treatment & Care in Oklahoma City
    https://www.dmei.org/services-specialties/cornea-external-diseases/keratoconus/
    Keratoconus can be diagnosed with a standard eye exam that involves your ophthalmologist examining the cornea and possibly measuring its curve. Mild cases of keratoconus can be treated early with eyeglasses to correct vision impairment or sometimes keratoconus contact lenses. […] Great care and expertise must be used to fit contact lenses for keratoconus. Frequent check-ups and lens changes may be necessary due to subtle and unpredictable changes in the shape of the cornea. […] Keratoconus impacts everyone differently, and treatments depend on the conditions severity. If you or a loved one is dealing with keratoconus, the team of leading ophthalmologists at Dean McGee Eye Institute can help.
  • #1
    https://www.focalpointeeyecare.com/i-have-keratoconus-now-what
    Poorly fitting lenses can rub against the diseased part of the cornea. […] If your keratoconus has progressed, a procedure called corneal cross-linking is highly effective in slowing the progression. […] The severity of your disease will determine the best options for you. […] In the early stages of keratoconus, your vision can often be corrected with glasses or soft contact lenses to treat nearsightedness and astigmatism. […] As keratoconus progresses, specially fitted contacts are needed to provide better vision. […] For most people with keratoconus, a scleral lens is the best treatment option for better vision. […] In fewer than 10% of people with keratoconus, the cornea will eventually become too scarred or wearing contact lenses will become too difficult. In these people, corneal transplant surgery may be needed. […] Schedule an appointment with Dr. Lyons to discuss treatment options for keratoconus.
  • #1 Keratoconus Treatment in NJ | Somerset Eye Care
    https://somerseteyecare.com/keratoconus/
    At Somerset Eye Care, we understand everyone’s eyes are unique and that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution to keratoconus. We customize each keratoconus treatment plan to each patient’s specific needs. Our range of solutions includes specialty lenses that are designed to afford clear vision to those living with keratoconus, including advanced scleral and rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses. […] We’re here to serve the needs of our fellow community members, and work to provide our patients with personalized keratoconus treatment that accommodates their needs and lifestyle. When you visit our office, you can expect a team of caring doctors who utilize advanced technology in order to catch issues like keratoconus early, before your sight is impacted. Schedule an eye exam with us today to discover the difference Somerset Eye Care can make for your vision.
  • #1 Keratoconus – Education, Diagnosis & Treatment-KeratoconusDoctors.com
    https://keratoconusdoctors.com/keratoconus/
    Seeking regular eye care at intervals recommended by your keratoconus specialist is the most important thing you can do. […] With regular eye exams, we can monitor potential progression and alter your care as needed to optimize your vision and health. […] Having a pair of glasses to wear when you cant wear your contact lenses is also extremely important. […] It is also a good idea to avoid vigorous eye rubbing. […] Keratoconus is a condition that must be managed and when done so, patients do very well. […] We offer complimentary keratoconus treatment consults to help patients decide which treatment option is best for them.
  • #1 THE CONTINUUM OF CARE FOR KERATOCONUS | Contact Lens Spectrum
    https://clspectrum.com/issues/2018/february/the-continuum-of-care-for-keratoconus/
    When keratoconus becomes moderate-to-severe in stage, our preference is a scleral lens. […] The vaulting fit creates a tear reservoir behind the lens and in front of the cornea that acts as a fluid bath for the cornea. […] Surgical intervention for keratoconus should be considered when other forms of visual rehabilitation have failed or would benefit from supplemental approaches. […] Corneal keratoplasty procedures are also an important option for the surgical management of keratoconus. […] Developing surgical technologies such as topography-guided laser corneal ablation are showing some degree of promise to sculpt the cornea in an effort to reduce the irregularity of the keratoconic corneal surface. […] Staging the condition is the first step in making treatment decisions. […] In general, for forme fruste keratoconus, spectacles, off-the-shelf soft torics, custom soft torics, and hybrid lenses can be successful. […] For moderate keratoconus, hybrid and scleral lenses are best. […] In severe stages, scleral and impression-based sclerals are best, or surgery.
  • #1 Keratoconus Treatment & Management: Medical Care, Surgical Care, Consultations
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1194693-treatment
    Patients may still require contact lenses after surgical correction. […] UV-CXL is the only procedure that slows the progression of keratoconus. […] Patients should avoid (vigorous) eye rubbing. […] Frequently observe patients with keratoconus, especially because most wear contact lenses, which can produce complications including hypoxia and giant papillary conjunctivitis. […] Even in the absence of signs or symptoms of complications, contact lens care should be provided at 4-month to 6-month intervals to promptly address changes in fit or optics, as well as detecting asymptomatic complications and early intolerance.
  • #1 Keratoconus | University of Iowa Health Care
    https://uihc.org/health-topics/keratoconus
    Keratoconus is an irregular protrusion of the cornea, the clear surface over the colored part of the eye. […] A contact lens is the most highly effective way to manage keratoconus and 90% of all cases can be managed this way indefinitely. […] It is important for a patient with keratoconus to follow-up with his/her eye doctor at a minimum of 6 month intervals to make sure there has been no change to the cornea or contact lens. […] Use of contact lenses may postpone or eliminate the need for future, more costly and dangerous, surgical intervention.
  • #1 A New Era of Keratoconus Care
    https://www.reviewofcontactlenses.com/article/a-new-era-of-keratoconus-care
    The modern management of keratoconus can best be characterized by four directives: (1) diagnose early, (2) monitor often, (3) stop progression and (4) improve vision. […] Significant advances are changing the way we approach each of these four aspects of care. […] The advent of corneal topography provided new metrics for reviewing cornea curvature and symmetry. […] Corneal tomography added information about global corneal pachymetry and anterior and posterior corneal elevation. […] In addition, an impressive array of device-specific multifactor algorithms are available for early detection, monitoring and classification, all of which are highly sensitive and specific for diagnosing keratoconus and monitoring for progression. […] Clinicians can now analyze individual corneal layers with ultra high-resolution ultrasound and OCT.
  • #1 Advancing state-of-the-art keratoconus care | AOA
    https://www.aoa.org/news/clinical-eye-care/diseases-and-conditions/advancing-keratoconus-care
    Experts share their approaches to keratoconus care, including emerging technologys impact. […] Today there are more options for keratoconus management at doctors’ disposal than ever before, but has optometry made the most of these? […] In the past decade alone, care of the keratoconic patient has progressed by leaps and bounds with advances in technology bolstering an array of management options, ranging from spectacles and contact lenses to surgery. […] „Optometrists understand what to look for in making a diagnosis, but the understanding of how best to treat the patient with keratoconus still needs a lot of work,” says Jeffrey Sonsino, O.D., AOA Contact Lens Cornea Section chair. […] „Right now, there is no standard of care for recommendations about different contact lenses at different stages of keratoconus, and that’s what we’re trying to establish,” Dr. Sonsino says.
  • #1 Diagnosis and management of keratoconus by eye care practitioners in Kenya | BMC Ophthalmology | Full Text
    https://bmcophthalmol.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12886-023-02792-w
    The majority reported having access to retinoscopes (88.5%; p=0.48) and slit lamps (76.7; p=0.14). […] Few practitioners had access to a corneal topographer (13.5%; p=0.08) and rigid contact lens (CL) fitting sets (OCOs 5.8%, optometrists 33.8%; p<0.01). [...] One-third did not feel that retinoscopy (38.7%; p=0.21), slit lamp findings (30.3%; p=0.10) and corneal topography (36.6%; p=0.39) are important investigations in keratoconus diagnosis. [...] Corneal topography was not recommended in two-thirds of patients (59.0%; p=0.33) with vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC). [...] The majority counselled against eye rubbing in mild (73.6%; p=0.90) VKC, 52.9% in moderate (p=0.40) and 43.6% in severe (p=0.24) cases. [...] The majority prescribed spectacles in mild (90.2%; p=0.95), 29% (p=0.97) in moderate and 1.9% (p=0.05) in severe cases.
  • #1 Diagnosis and management of keratoconus by eye care practitioners in Kenya | BMC Ophthalmology | Full Text
    https://bmcophthalmol.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12886-023-02792-w
    When the binocular best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) with spectacles was 6/18, 76.9% of OCOs and 58.9% of optometrists referred for CLs (p=0.02). […] When binocular BCVA with CLs dropped to 6/18, 83.7% (p=0.18) referred to the ophthalmologist for surgical intervention. […] Few OCOs fitted rigid CLs (15.4% OCOs, 51.0% optometrists; p=0.01), majority referred to optometrists (82.7% OCOs, 43.7% optometrists; p<0.01). [...] Progression was monitored in 70.1% (p=0.11) of mild, 50.9% (p=0.54) moderate and 25.3% (p=0.31) advanced cases. [...] Few OCOs (15.4%) performed corneal cross-linking (CXL). [...] Co-management with ophthalmologists was reported by 58.0% (p=0.06) of respondents. [...] Disease management will depend on severity and progression; aimed at halting progression and vision rehabilitation.
  • #1 CRSToday | Pearls for Keratoconus Screening and Treatment
    https://crstoday.com/articles/jan-2022/pearls-for-keratoconus-screening-and-treatment
    Greater awareness of the early signs of keratoconus and how best to treat the disease are still needed. […] If their primary eye care professionals put protocols in place to screen for the signs of keratoconus routinely, it could increase the rate at which keratoconus is identified and treated before the disease reaches an advanced stage. […] Primary eye care professionals should identify the signs of keratoconus, especially in younger patients, and understand the impact that early intervention has on visual outcomes. […] The earlier keratoconus is diagnosed, the better the chance of optimizing these patients visual outcomes. […] Increasing public awareness of the impact of eye rubbing and its association with keratoconus, including the weakening of corneal tissue, as well as awareness of the disease should be a priority.
  • #1 A New Era of Keratoconus Care
    https://www.reviewofcontactlenses.com/article/a-new-era-of-keratoconus-care
    The missing link has always been in measuring corneal biomechanics, another area of diagnostic innovation. […] CXL, mediated by riboflavin and ultraviolet (UV) light illumination, has been standard of care in Europe to slow the progression of keratoconus since researchers documented its efficacy in 2003. […] Many variations to the procedure are continuously under development, and researchers are exploring innovations within each of three necessary components of crosslinking: riboflavin, UV light and oxygen. […] The opportunity to strengthen the cornea with CXL has opened new avenues of surgical keratoconus management. […] Many of these same technologies can be applied to the keratoconic cornea to re-sculpt corneal curvature, with the goal of improving symmetry and total aberrations and creating partial refractive correction. […] Advances in diagnostic imaging and therapy have already changed the keratoconus care paradigm for the better with earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment.
  • #1 Diagnosis and management of keratoconus by eye care practitioners in Kenya | BMC Ophthalmology | Full Text
    https://bmcophthalmol.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12886-023-02792-w
    The gaps in knowledge and clinical practice can be used by training institutions and professional associations to review current curricula and set national standards for both undergraduate education and continuous professional education. […] Additionally, relevant stakeholders could collaborate to develop keratoconus diagnosis and management guidelines for clinical practice in both private and public sectors. […] There is a need for greater interdisciplinary co-management between ophthalmologists and MLOWs to improve visual outcomes in patients with keratoconus.
  • #1 Keratoconus Screening in Primary Eye Care – A General Overview – touchOPHTHALMOLOGY
    https://touchophthalmology.com/anterior-segment/journal-articles/keratoconus-screening-in-primary-eye-care-a-general-overview/
    Primary eye care practitioners play a relevant role in early detection of eye disorders and pathologies. Keratoconus could be suspected in risk patients (Down syndrome, relatives of affected patients, ocular allergy, Asian or Arabian ethnicity, eye rubbing, floppy eyelid syndrome, atopy, connective tissue disorders [Marfan syndrome] and others) or when certain clinical signs are found in the eye exam, such as: scissors reflex during retinoscopy exam, oil-droplet reflex (Charleux sign), change in astigmatism refraction (in axe or power) or myopia increase with asymmetry between both eyes. […] In summary, corneal topography plays a significant role in keratoconus detection in primary eye care, because anterior Placido-based corneal topographers are cheaper devices with great utility in keratoconus management (fitting GP CL) and follow up. However, a definitive keratoconus diagnosis requires anterior and posterior corneal assessment (with corneal tomography and other techniques) and global pachymetry investigation able to distinguish between healthy cornea, fustre keratoconus and keratoconus. So, corneal tomography is compulsory to conduct a definitive diagnosis or in refractive surgery patients screening.
  • #2 Keratoconus: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14415-keratoconus
    Keratoconus is a condition of the eye in which the normally rounded cornea bulges outward into a cone shape. The cornea is the clear, central part of the front surface of the eye. It protects your eye and helps you focus for clear vision. […] Eye care providers normally find keratoconus during your teenage years or your 20s and 30s, but it can also start in childhood. In some cases, a provider will diagnose a mild case of keratoconus at a later age. The changes in the shape of the cornea occur over several years but happen at a more rapid rate in younger people. […] There are several methods for treating keratoconus, depending on how severe the condition is. Your eye care provider can help to decide which, if any, of these treatments may help you. Treatments include eyeglasses, contact lenses, implantable ring segments, corneal crosslinking and cornea transplant.
  • #2 A New Era of Keratoconus Care
    https://www.reviewofcontactlenses.com/article/a-new-era-of-keratoconus-care
    The modern management of keratoconus can best be characterized by four directives: (1) diagnose early, (2) monitor often, (3) stop progression and (4) improve vision. […] Significant advances are changing the way we approach each of these four aspects of care. […] The advent of corneal topography provided new metrics for reviewing cornea curvature and symmetry. […] Corneal tomography added information about global corneal pachymetry and anterior and posterior corneal elevation. […] In addition, an impressive array of device-specific multifactor algorithms are available for early detection, monitoring and classification, all of which are highly sensitive and specific for diagnosing keratoconus and monitoring for progression. […] Clinicians can now analyze individual corneal layers with ultra high-resolution ultrasound and OCT.
  • #2 Keratoconus Treatment & Management: Medical Care, Surgical Care, Consultations
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1194693-treatment
    Patients may still require contact lenses after surgical correction. […] UV-CXL is the only procedure that slows the progression of keratoconus. […] Patients should avoid (vigorous) eye rubbing. […] Frequently observe patients with keratoconus, especially because most wear contact lenses, which can produce complications including hypoxia and giant papillary conjunctivitis. […] Even in the absence of signs or symptoms of complications, contact lens care should be provided at 4-month to 6-month intervals to promptly address changes in fit or optics, as well as detecting asymptomatic complications and early intolerance.
  • #2 What is Keratoconus | Conditions & Treatments | UTSW Medical Center
    https://utswmed.org/conditions-treatments/keratoconus/
    For people with advanced keratoconus, UT Southwestern offers two types of treatments: corneal collagen cross-linking and corneal transplant. […] Corneal collagen cross-linking an FDA-approved treatment for keratoconus is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that uses vitamin B2 eye drops and ultraviolet light to stiffen and strengthen the cornea. […] The procedure can prevent keratoconus from worsening, and in some cases, doctors can reshape the cornea using laser surgery. Corneal collagen cross-linking helps delay or prevent the need for corneal transplantation. […] In some patients, keratoconus is too advanced and cross-linking is no longer viable. In these cases, corneal transplantation may be an option, in which the patients unhealthy cornea is replaced with a healthy donor cornea.
  • #2
    https://www.focalpointeeyecare.com/i-have-keratoconus-now-what
    Poorly fitting lenses can rub against the diseased part of the cornea. […] If your keratoconus has progressed, a procedure called corneal cross-linking is highly effective in slowing the progression. […] The severity of your disease will determine the best options for you. […] In the early stages of keratoconus, your vision can often be corrected with glasses or soft contact lenses to treat nearsightedness and astigmatism. […] As keratoconus progresses, specially fitted contacts are needed to provide better vision. […] For most people with keratoconus, a scleral lens is the best treatment option for better vision. […] In fewer than 10% of people with keratoconus, the cornea will eventually become too scarred or wearing contact lenses will become too difficult. In these people, corneal transplant surgery may be needed. […] Schedule an appointment with Dr. Lyons to discuss treatment options for keratoconus.
  • #2 Keratoconus Treatment | Buena Vista Eye Care | El Paso TX
    https://buenavistaelpaso.com/services/keratoconus-treatment/
    Keratoconus, a progressive eye disease, significantly impairs vision. At Buena Vista Eye Care, we specialize in advanced treatments for keratoconus, aiming to improve vision and manage the condition effectively. […] Recognizing the early signs, such as a change in vision or increased light sensitivity, is crucial for timely treatment. […] Regular eye exams at Buena Vista Eye Care can help identify changes in the cornea and allow for early intervention, slowing the progression of keratoconus. […] Scleral lenses, larger than typical contact lenses, vault over the entire corneal surface, providing comfort and improved vision. They are especially beneficial for patients with advanced keratoconus, where regular contact lenses may no longer be effective. […] Educating patients about their condition is a cornerstone of our approach to eye care. We believe informed patients are better equipped to manage their condition. Our team provides comprehensive education on keratoconus, including ways to slow its progression and the importance of regular follow-up.
  • #2 Keratoconus – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/keratoconus/symptoms-causes/syc-20351352
    Keratoconus care at Mayo Clinic […] If your condition gets worse, you may need a cornea transplant. […] A procedure called corneal collagen cross-linking may help to slow or stop keratoconus from progressing, possibly preventing the need for a future cornea transplant.
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  • #2 Keratoconus | Cedars-Sinai
    https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/k/keratoconus.html
    Sometimes eye care providers will use a mix of treatments for better results. Each of these procedures has its own risks and benefits. Ask your provider about what treatment or treatments make sense for you. […] In rare cases, severe keratoconus causes a complication called corneal hydrops. […] You may need to wear special contact lenses or use special eye drops if you have corneal hydrops. […] Most cases are not preventable. You may be able to reduce your chance of getting keratoconus by: Protecting your eyes from UV radiation with sunglasses […] In its early stages, glasses or contacts may be the only treatment you need. […] Some people will need other procedures, such as corneal transplant surgery.
  • #2 Diagnosis and management of keratoconus by eye care practitioners in Kenya | BMC Ophthalmology | Full Text
    https://bmcophthalmol.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12886-023-02792-w
    The gaps in knowledge and clinical practice can be used by training institutions and professional associations to review current curricula and set national standards for both undergraduate education and continuous professional education. […] Additionally, relevant stakeholders could collaborate to develop keratoconus diagnosis and management guidelines for clinical practice in both private and public sectors. […] There is a need for greater interdisciplinary co-management between ophthalmologists and MLOWs to improve visual outcomes in patients with keratoconus.
  • #2 Keratoconus Treatment in NJ | Somerset Eye Care
    https://somerseteyecare.com/keratoconus/
    At Somerset Eye Care, we understand everyone’s eyes are unique and that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution to keratoconus. We customize each keratoconus treatment plan to each patient’s specific needs. Our range of solutions includes specialty lenses that are designed to afford clear vision to those living with keratoconus, including advanced scleral and rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses. […] We’re here to serve the needs of our fellow community members, and work to provide our patients with personalized keratoconus treatment that accommodates their needs and lifestyle. When you visit our office, you can expect a team of caring doctors who utilize advanced technology in order to catch issues like keratoconus early, before your sight is impacted. Schedule an eye exam with us today to discover the difference Somerset Eye Care can make for your vision.
  • #2 Keratoconus | University of Iowa Health Care
    https://uihc.org/health-topics/keratoconus
    Keratoconus is an irregular protrusion of the cornea, the clear surface over the colored part of the eye. […] A contact lens is the most highly effective way to manage keratoconus and 90% of all cases can be managed this way indefinitely. […] It is important for a patient with keratoconus to follow-up with his/her eye doctor at a minimum of 6 month intervals to make sure there has been no change to the cornea or contact lens. […] Use of contact lenses may postpone or eliminate the need for future, more costly and dangerous, surgical intervention.
  • #2 THE CONTINUUM OF CARE FOR KERATOCONUS | Contact Lens Spectrum
    https://clspectrum.com/issues/2018/february/the-continuum-of-care-for-keratoconus/
    When keratoconus becomes moderate-to-severe in stage, our preference is a scleral lens. […] The vaulting fit creates a tear reservoir behind the lens and in front of the cornea that acts as a fluid bath for the cornea. […] Surgical intervention for keratoconus should be considered when other forms of visual rehabilitation have failed or would benefit from supplemental approaches. […] Corneal keratoplasty procedures are also an important option for the surgical management of keratoconus. […] Developing surgical technologies such as topography-guided laser corneal ablation are showing some degree of promise to sculpt the cornea in an effort to reduce the irregularity of the keratoconic corneal surface. […] Staging the condition is the first step in making treatment decisions. […] In general, for forme fruste keratoconus, spectacles, off-the-shelf soft torics, custom soft torics, and hybrid lenses can be successful. […] For moderate keratoconus, hybrid and scleral lenses are best. […] In severe stages, scleral and impression-based sclerals are best, or surgery.
  • #2 Keratoconus Treatment & Management | Broomfield
    https://visionaryeyecareco.com/service/keratoconus-treatment-management/
    In serious cases, we might recommend eye surgery to help address keratoconus, like corneal cross-linking or a corneal transplant. […] Scleral lenses are specialty contact lenses designed to help manage corneal conditions like keratoconus or dry eye symptoms. […] Dr. Gates is trained in fitting scleral lenses and will happily walk you through everything you need to know about caring for your scleral lenses. […] If youre looking for a solution to manage keratoconus, please book an appointment with Dr. Gates to discuss how we can help!
  • #2 Keratoconus – Education, Diagnosis & Treatment-KeratoconusDoctors.com
    https://keratoconusdoctors.com/keratoconus/
    Seeking regular eye care at intervals recommended by your keratoconus specialist is the most important thing you can do. […] With regular eye exams, we can monitor potential progression and alter your care as needed to optimize your vision and health. […] Having a pair of glasses to wear when you cant wear your contact lenses is also extremely important. […] It is also a good idea to avoid vigorous eye rubbing. […] Keratoconus is a condition that must be managed and when done so, patients do very well. […] We offer complimentary keratoconus treatment consults to help patients decide which treatment option is best for them.
  • #2 The Evolution of Keratoconus Care
    https://www.reviewofcontactlenses.com/article/the-evolution-of-keratoconus-care
    In the past few years, the standard of care for keratoconus has transitioned to more effective use of contact lenses and earlier surgical treatment to arrest or delay the progression of the disease as well as improve visual acuity. […] Practitioners the world overminus the United Stateshave in recent years been able to treat keratoconic patients with one of the biggest advances in modern times: corneal collagen crosslinking using a combination of topical riboflavin and ultraviolet light to strengthen the cornea and arrest progression of the condition. […] The panel determined that corneal collagen crosslinking in particular was important for the treatment of keratoconus with documented progression and recommended that it should be considered for this group of patients of any age. […] New options for treating both medically with contact lenses and surgically have changed the standard of care for this condition.
  • #2 Advancing state-of-the-art keratoconus care | AOA
    https://www.aoa.org/news/clinical-eye-care/diseases-and-conditions/advancing-keratoconus-care
    Experts share their approaches to keratoconus care, including emerging technologys impact. […] Today there are more options for keratoconus management at doctors’ disposal than ever before, but has optometry made the most of these? […] In the past decade alone, care of the keratoconic patient has progressed by leaps and bounds with advances in technology bolstering an array of management options, ranging from spectacles and contact lenses to surgery. […] „Optometrists understand what to look for in making a diagnosis, but the understanding of how best to treat the patient with keratoconus still needs a lot of work,” says Jeffrey Sonsino, O.D., AOA Contact Lens Cornea Section chair. […] „Right now, there is no standard of care for recommendations about different contact lenses at different stages of keratoconus, and that’s what we’re trying to establish,” Dr. Sonsino says.
  • #2 A New Era of Keratoconus Care
    https://www.reviewofcontactlenses.com/article/a-new-era-of-keratoconus-care
    The missing link has always been in measuring corneal biomechanics, another area of diagnostic innovation. […] CXL, mediated by riboflavin and ultraviolet (UV) light illumination, has been standard of care in Europe to slow the progression of keratoconus since researchers documented its efficacy in 2003. […] Many variations to the procedure are continuously under development, and researchers are exploring innovations within each of three necessary components of crosslinking: riboflavin, UV light and oxygen. […] The opportunity to strengthen the cornea with CXL has opened new avenues of surgical keratoconus management. […] Many of these same technologies can be applied to the keratoconic cornea to re-sculpt corneal curvature, with the goal of improving symmetry and total aberrations and creating partial refractive correction. […] Advances in diagnostic imaging and therapy have already changed the keratoconus care paradigm for the better with earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment.
  • #2 Advancing state-of-the-art keratoconus care | AOA
    https://www.aoa.org/news/clinical-eye-care/diseases-and-conditions/advancing-keratoconus-care
    Today, in addition to corneal GPs, practitioners can tailor their care using scleral or hybrid contact lenses, custom soft contact lenses, or „piggyback-fit” contact lenses before considering surgical interventions. […] However, it extends beyond contact lenses. Optometry plays a central role in keratoconus diagnosis, management and patient counseling. […] As clinical understanding of keratoconus undergoes tremendous change, it’s vital to know how important early diagnosis and management options can be in dramatically impacting patients’ visual function, Dr. Eiden says. […] „It’s our goal that this course will address all of these factors and lay a framework for better understanding of the disease, technologies to make early diagnosis, and management in terms of disease progression control and improvement in vision,” Dr. Eiden says.
  • #2 Keratoconus Screening in Primary Eye Care – A General Overview – touchOPHTHALMOLOGY
    https://touchophthalmology.com/anterior-segment/journal-articles/keratoconus-screening-in-primary-eye-care-a-general-overview/
    Primary eye care practitioners play a relevant role in early detection of eye disorders and pathologies. Keratoconus could be suspected in risk patients (Down syndrome, relatives of affected patients, ocular allergy, Asian or Arabian ethnicity, eye rubbing, floppy eyelid syndrome, atopy, connective tissue disorders [Marfan syndrome] and others) or when certain clinical signs are found in the eye exam, such as: scissors reflex during retinoscopy exam, oil-droplet reflex (Charleux sign), change in astigmatism refraction (in axe or power) or myopia increase with asymmetry between both eyes. […] In summary, corneal topography plays a significant role in keratoconus detection in primary eye care, because anterior Placido-based corneal topographers are cheaper devices with great utility in keratoconus management (fitting GP CL) and follow up. However, a definitive keratoconus diagnosis requires anterior and posterior corneal assessment (with corneal tomography and other techniques) and global pachymetry investigation able to distinguish between healthy cornea, fustre keratoconus and keratoconus. So, corneal tomography is compulsory to conduct a definitive diagnosis or in refractive surgery patients screening.
  • #2 Keratoconus – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470435/
    Keratoconus is a progressive bilateral corneal ectatic disorder characterized by cone-like steepening of the cornea, irregular stromal thinning, and significant vision loss. […] Initial treatment options for keratoconus, personalized for each patient, include prescription spectacles, rigid gas-permeable contact lenses, and collagen cross-linking, which, if administered early, may slow or halt disease progression. […] This activity also provides healthcare professionals with essential knowledge and tools to mitigate morbidity and enhance the overall quality of life for affected patients. […] Patients must avoid rubbing their eyes to help control the disease. […] A general overview of postoperative and rehabilitative care for patients with keratoconus undergoing surgical interventions is mentioned below.
  • #2  Living with Keratoconus: Tips for Managing Daily Life
    https://www.parksideeyecare.com/blog/living-with-keratoconus-tips-for-managing-daily-life.html
    Another crucial change is to avoid rubbing your eyes. Eye rubbing can exacerbate the corneal thinning and distortion caused by keratoconus. If your eyes are irritated or itchy, it’s better to use lubricating eye drops instead of rubbing them. […] A healthy diet and regular exercise are also beneficial for overall eye health. Foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, such as fruits, vegetables, fish, and nuts, can help strengthen your eye tissues. Regular exercise can improve blood circulation, which can help nourish the cornea and other parts of the eye. […] Living with keratoconus can be challenging, but with the right strategies, lifestyle changes, and medical care, it’s possible to manage the condition and maintain a good quality of life. Remember, it’s essential to have regular eye examinations, follow your eye care professional’s advice, and take good care of your eyes.