Keratoconus
Etiologia i przyczyny
Keratoconus to postępująca, degeneracyjna choroba rogówki, charakteryzująca się stożkowatym uwypukleniem i ścieńczeniem, prowadzącym do nieregularnego astygmatyzmu i znacznego upośledzenia widzenia. Etiologia jest wieloczynnikowa, obejmująca predyspozycje genetyczne oraz czynniki środowiskowe. Genetyczne ryzyko potwierdza fakt, że około 10% pacjentów ma rodzinne występowanie choroby, a osoby z pierwszego stopnia pokrewieństwa mają 3,34% ryzyko rozwoju keratoconusa. Choroba jest powiązana z mutacjami na 16 z 22 chromosomów, co wskazuje na złożony poligeniczny charakter. Keratoconus częściej występuje u pacjentów z zespołem Downa (5-30%), zespołem Ehlersa-Danlosa, Marfana, wrodzoną ślepotą Lebera, osteogenesis imperfecta, retinitis pigmentosa, retinopatią wcześniaków, zespołem Noonana oraz obturacyjnym bezdechem sennym, co sugeruje wspólne mechanizmy patogenetyczne związane z zaburzeniami kolagenu i tkanki łącznej.
Keratoconus – Etiologia, przyczyny i czynniki ryzyka
Keratoconus to postępująca, degeneracyjna choroba rogówki charakteryzująca się stożkowatym uwypukleniem i ścieńczeniem rogówki, prowadząca do nieregularnego astygmatyzmu i znacznego upośledzenia widzenia.12 Pomimo wielu lat badań, dokładna przyczyna keratoconusu pozostaje niejasna, a aktualne dowody wskazują na złożoną, wieloczynnikową etiologię obejmującą zarówno czynniki genetyczne, jak i środowiskowe.34
Czynniki genetyczne
Genetyczne predyspozycje odgrywają istotną rolę w rozwoju keratoconusu. Około 10% pacjentów z keratoconusem ma również rodzica z tym schorzeniem, co sugeruje dziedziczny komponent.56 W niektórych badaniach zaobserwowano jeszcze wyższy wskaźnik – od 5% do 20% wzrostu prawdopodobieństwa rozwoju keratoconusu, jeśli inni członkowie rodziny cierpią na tę chorobę.7 Osoby spokrewnione w pierwszym stopniu z pacjentami z keratoconusem mają 3,34% szans na rozwój tej choroby, co jest znacząco wyższe niż w populacji ogólnej.8
Badania wykazały, że rozwój keratoconusu został powiązany z aż 73% ludzkich chromosomów (16 z 22 chromosomów), co podkreśla złożoność genetycznego podłoża tego schorzenia.9 Pomimo intensywnych badań, nie zidentyfikowano pojedynczego genu odpowiedzialnego za keratoconus, co wskazuje na zaangażowanie wielu genów i ścieżek patogenetycznych.10 W przypadkach rodzinnych, keratoconus wydaje się występować sporadycznie, bez określonego wzorca dziedziczenia.11
Choroby współistniejące i zespoły genetyczne
Keratoconus występuje częściej u pacjentów z określonymi chorobami systemowymi i genetycznymi. Do najczęściej powiązanych należą:1213
- Zespół Downa – około 5-30% dzieci z zespołem Downa rozwija keratoconus14
- Zespół Ehlersa-Danlosa – zaburzenie tkanki łącznej zwiększające ryzyko uszkodzenia oczu15
- Zespół Marfana – zwiększa podatność na uszkodzenia oczu, w tym keratoconus16
- Wrodzona ślepota Lebera17
- Osteogenesis imperfecta (wrodzona łamliwość kości)18
- Retinitis pigmentosa (zwyrodnienie barwnikowe siatkówki)19
- Retinopatia wcześniaków20
- Zespół Noonana21
- Obturacyjny bezdech senny22
Powiązanie keratoconusu z tymi chorobami sugeruje wspólne mechanizmy patogenetyczne, szczególnie dotyczące struktury i metabolizmu kolagenu oraz tkanki łącznej.2324
Czynniki środowiskowe
Wśród czynników środowiskowych przyczyniających się do rozwoju keratoconusu, najlepiej udokumentowanym jest tarcie oczu. Chroniczne i intensywne pocieranie oczu może prowadzić do mikrourazów tkanki rogówki, co skutkuje stopniowym osłabieniem i ścieńczeniem rogówki.2526 Pacjenci z keratoconusem często zgłaszają intensywne pocieranie oczu, co jest związane z występowaniem alergii, które powodują swędzenie i podrażnienie oczu.27
Inne czynniki środowiskowe związane z keratoconusem obejmują:2829
- Choroby atopowe (alergie, astma, egzema) – zwiększają tendencję do pocierania oczu30
- Ekspozycja na promieniowanie UV – może przyczyniać się do uszkodzenia rogówki31
- Niewłaściwie dopasowane soczewki kontaktowe – mogą powodować tarcie o rogówkę32
- Przewlekłe podrażnienie oczu – prowadzi do częstego pocierania33
Mechanizmy patogeniczne
Na poziomie komórkowym i molekularnym, w patogenezie keratoconusu zidentyfikowano kilka mechanizmów:3435
Zaburzenia struktury kolagenu
Badania histopatologiczne rogówek z keratoconusem wykazały uszkodzenia lub całkowity brak warstwy Bowmana, dezorganizację kolagenu, bliznowacenie i ścieńczenie.36 Rogówki pacjentów z keratoconusem pozbawione są ważnych włókien kotwiczących, które strukturalnie stabilizują przednią rogówkę.37 U pacjentów z keratoconusem zaobserwowano brak naturalnych włókien sieciujących kolagen.38
Zaburzenia enzymatyczne i stres oksydacyjny
Rogówki dotknięte keratoconusem wykazują zaburzenia równowagi enzymów odpowiedzialnych za utrzymanie struktury rogówki.39 Występuje nadmierna aktywność enzymów proteolitycznych (jak metaloproteinaza macierzy 9 [MMP-9]), które mogą prowadzić do rozkładu kolagenu w rogówce.40
Rogówki z keratoconusem wykazują również zwiększoną podatność na stres oksydacyjny związany z wolnymi rodnikami, co wynika z niedoboru enzymów antyoksydacyjnych, takich jak dehydrogenaza aldehydowa klasy 3 (ALDH3), katalaza czy dysmutaza ponadtlenkowa.4142 Nieprawidłowe przetwarzanie reaktywnych form tlenu (ROS) prowadzi do uszkodzenia tkanek rogówki i jej ścieńczenia.43
Komponenta zapalna i cytokiny
Nowsze badania wskazują na potencjalną rolę stanu zapalnego w patogenezie keratoconusu. W łzach pacjentów z keratoconusem wykryto podwyższone poziomy mediatorów zapalnych, takich jak cytokiny i interleukina 6 (IL-6), co sugeruje quasi-zapalny charakter tej choroby.4445 Występowanie keratoconusu jest częstsze u pacjentów z chorobami alergicznymi i zapalnymi, co dodatkowo wspiera tę hipotezę.46
Czynniki hormonalne
Kolejną hipotezą jest zaangażowanie układu hormonalnego w rozwój keratoconusu. Choroba zazwyczaj pojawia się w okresie dojrzewania i może postępować podczas ciąży, co sugeruje potencjalny związek ze zmianami hormonalnymi.4748 Estrogen, żeński hormon płciowy, może wpływać na produkcję kolagenu i strukturę rogówki, co może powodować większą podatność rogówki na ścieńczenie i deformację podczas okresów zmian hormonalnych.49 Jednak teoria ta pozostaje kontrowersyjna i nie została w pełni potwierdzona.50
Czynniki rasowe i demograficzne
Badania wykazały różnice w częstości występowania keratoconusu w zależności od rasy i pochodzenia etnicznego. Według jednego badania obejmującego ponad 16 000 osób z keratoconusem, osoby rasy czarnej lub pochodzenia latynoskiego mają około 50% większe prawdopodobieństwo zachorowania niż osoby rasy białej.51 Podobnie, badania sugerują, że choroba występuje częściej w grupach etnicznych nie-kaukaskich.52
Keratoconus zazwyczaj rozwija się w okresie dojrzewania, między 10. a 25. rokiem życia, dotykając mężczyzn i kobiety w równym stopniu.5354 Jednakże, niektóre badania sugerują wyższą częstość występowania u mężczyzn, co może wskazywać na potencjalny komponent hormonalny.55
Wzajemne oddziaływania czynników ryzyka
Najnowsze badania sugerują, że keratoconus rozwija się w wyniku złożonej interakcji między różnymi czynnikami ryzyka. Predyspozycja genetyczna może stworzyć podatny grunt, który, przy ekspozycji na określone czynniki środowiskowe, prowadzi do manifestacji klinicznej choroby.5657
Na przykład, osoby z genetyczną predyspozycją do keratoconusu mogą być bardziej podatne na uszkodzenia rogówki spowodowane pocieraniem oczu lub niewłaściwie dopasowanymi soczewkami kontaktowymi.58 Podobnie, pacjenci z chorobami atopowymi mogą doświadczać zwiększonego stresu oksydacyjnego, co w połączeniu z genetyczną podatnością, może przyspieszać rozwój keratoconusu.59
Podsumowanie etiologii keratoconusu
Keratoconus pozostaje chorobą o złożonej, wieloczynnikowej etiologii, gdzie zarówno czynniki genetyczne, jak i środowiskowe odgrywają kluczową rolę.60 Aktualne dowody wskazują na kombinację predyspozycji genetycznych, zaburzeń struktury kolagenu i równowagi enzymatycznej, stresu oksydacyjnego, komponentów zapalnych oraz czynników środowiskowych takich jak tarcie oczu i alergie.6162
Zrozumienie tych złożonych interakcji jest kluczowe dla opracowania skutecznych strategii profilaktycznych i terapeutycznych dla pacjentów z keratoconusem. Trwające badania, szczególnie w zakresie genetyki molekularnej i biomarkerów, mogą dostarczyć nowych informacji na temat podstawowych mechanizmów tej choroby i potencjalnie prowadzić do rozwoju celowanych terapii.6364
Obecnie, wczesna identyfikacja czynników ryzyka oraz zmniejszenie narażenia na modyfikowalne czynniki, takie jak intensywne pocieranie oczu, może pomóc w spowolnieniu progresji choroby u pacjentów z keratoconusem lub podatnych na jego rozwój.6566
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Materiały źródłowe
- #1 Keratoconus – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelfhttps://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. […] Although the exact etiology and pathophysiology may not be understood, several risk factors are recognized as predisposing individuals to developing keratoconus, as mentioned below. […] Certain systemic conditions heighten the risk of keratoconus, including Down syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, osteogenesis imperfecta, Leber congenital amaurosis, and Noonan syndrome. […] Some studies reveal an association between keratoconus and certain environmental conditions such as atopic disease, asthma, and hay fever. […] Persistent eye rubbing appears to either cause or exaggerate keratoconus. […] Individuals or their family members, especially first-degree relatives, with a history of keratoconus, have a significantly elevated risk of developing the condition. […] The development of keratoconus has been linked to 73% or 16 out of 22 human chromosomes. […] Keratoconus likely arises from a multifactorial etiology, with both genetic and environmental factors contributing to its development.
- #2 Keratoconus Causes and Diagnoses | Northwestern Medicinehttps://www.nm.org/conditions-and-care-areas/ophthalmology/keratoconus/causes-and-diagnoses
The exact cause of keratoconus isnt known, but a number of cases appear to be hereditary. […] Research is also underway to study the connection between keratoconus and other inflammatory diseases. […] Other causes may include: Corneal trauma, Chronic eye inflammation and rubbing, A history of ill-fitting contact lenses, Enzyme imbalance in the cornea.
- #3 The Genetic and Environmental Factors for Keratoconushttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4449900/
Keratoconus (KC) is the most common cornea ectatic disorder. It is characterized by a cone-shaped thin cornea leading to myopia, irregular astigmatism, and vision impairment. […] Both environmental and genetic factors may contribute to its pathogenesis. […] It is a corneal disorder in which the central portion of the cornea becomes thinner and bulges forward in a cone-shaped fashion resulting in myopia, irregular astigmatism, and eventually visual impairment. […] However, recent evidence of overexpression of inflammatory mediators such as cytokines and interleukin 6 (IL-6) in tears of KC patients and in subclinical KC may refute this concept and inflammation is currently considered by some researchers to play a role in the pathogenesis of KC. […] Environmental factors, which have been recognized, are eye rubbing, atopy, and UV exposure, although the relative contribution of all these factors is currently unknown.
- #4 What Causes Keratoconus to Get Worse? | Apex Vision Carehttps://www.findclarityvision.com/blog/what-causes-keratoconus-to-get-worse.html
Keratoconus is an eye problem that thins the cornea gradually. It causes it to bulge outwards and form a shape that looks like a cone. […] The causes of keratoconus are not yet clear. Some experts claim that it results from genetic makeup. However, there are certain health conditions linked to it, such as: […] Keratoconus becomes worse when the collagen continues weakening. Some factors, such as constant eye rubbing, contribute to this. Also, wearing contact lenses that do not fit properly can rub against the affected part of your cornea. As a result, it can worsen the condition.
- #5 Keratoconus – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/keratoconus/symptoms-causes/syc-20351352
No one knows what causes keratoconus, although genetic and environmental factors are thought to be involved. Around 1 in 10 people with keratoconus also has a parent with the condition. […] These factors can increase the risk of developing keratoconus: […] Having a family history of keratoconus. […] Rubbing the eyes vigorously. […] Having certain conditions, such as retinitis pigmentosa, Down syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Marfan syndrome, hay fever and asthma.
- #6https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-keratoconus
Keratoconus is when the cornea thins out and bulges like a cone. […] Doctors do not know for sure why people have keratoconus. In some cases, it appears to be genetic (passed down in families). About 1 out of 10 people with keratoconus have a parent who has it too. Keratoconus is also associated with eye allergies, excessive eye rubbing, and connective tissue disorders like Marfan syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
- #7 Causes â Keratoconus Specialists | Complete Family Eyecarehttps://www.keratoconusmn.com/causes/
The exact cause of keratoconus remains elusive. Contributing factors seem to include genetic and possible hormonal factors but environmental factors may also play a role in the development of keratoconus. […] In regard to genetic components, keratoconus appears to run sporadically in families but without any sort of direct inheritance pattern. Studies have suggested a 5% to 20% increase in chances of developing keratoconus if other family members have the condition. […] Keratoconus is much more common in males than females suggesting a possible hormonal component but an exact mechanism has never been determined. […] The presence of atopic (skin) conditions such as dermatitis, eczema, and allergies are also a risk factor in the development of keratoconus. […] From an environmental perspective, there is some degree of correlation but no definitive numbers on the increase risk of keratoconus due to eye rubbing.
- #8 The pathogenesis of keratoconus | Eyehttps://www.nature.com/articles/eye2013278
Keratoconus (KC) is a common degenerative condition that frequently results in visual loss with an onset typically in early adulthood. […] The cause and underlying pathological mechanism are unknown, but both environmental and genetic factors are thought to contribute to the development of the disease. […] Thus, despite a great deal of research, the aetiology of KC is still poorly understood. […] For KC the currently recognised environmental influences include contact lens wear, chronic eye rubbing and allergic eye disease. […] Although the majority of cases of KC are sporadic, reports of familial cases of KC are also common and aggregation of the disease in families is often observed. […] The prevalence of KC in first degree relatives of index cases has been estimated to be 3.34%, notably higher than that in the general population.
- #9 Keratoconus – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelfhttps://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. […] Although the exact etiology and pathophysiology may not be understood, several risk factors are recognized as predisposing individuals to developing keratoconus, as mentioned below. […] Certain systemic conditions heighten the risk of keratoconus, including Down syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, osteogenesis imperfecta, Leber congenital amaurosis, and Noonan syndrome. […] Some studies reveal an association between keratoconus and certain environmental conditions such as atopic disease, asthma, and hay fever. […] Persistent eye rubbing appears to either cause or exaggerate keratoconus. […] Individuals or their family members, especially first-degree relatives, with a history of keratoconus, have a significantly elevated risk of developing the condition. […] The development of keratoconus has been linked to 73% or 16 out of 22 human chromosomes. […] Keratoconus likely arises from a multifactorial etiology, with both genetic and environmental factors contributing to its development.
- #10 The pathogenesis of keratoconus | Eyehttps://www.nature.com/articles/eye2013278
Genetic risk factors for KC have proven difficult to identify because of the complex nature of the condition. […] Despite these efforts, potentially pathogenic variants have only been identified in a very small number of individuals with KC. […] The current lack of large effect contributions of these loci, SNPs and gene variants suggests a complex aetiology or convergence of multiple disease pathways.
- #11 Causes â Keratoconus Specialists | Complete Family Eyecarehttps://www.keratoconusmn.com/causes/
The exact cause of keratoconus remains elusive. Contributing factors seem to include genetic and possible hormonal factors but environmental factors may also play a role in the development of keratoconus. […] In regard to genetic components, keratoconus appears to run sporadically in families but without any sort of direct inheritance pattern. Studies have suggested a 5% to 20% increase in chances of developing keratoconus if other family members have the condition. […] Keratoconus is much more common in males than females suggesting a possible hormonal component but an exact mechanism has never been determined. […] The presence of atopic (skin) conditions such as dermatitis, eczema, and allergies are also a risk factor in the development of keratoconus. […] From an environmental perspective, there is some degree of correlation but no definitive numbers on the increase risk of keratoconus due to eye rubbing.
- #12 Keratoconus – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/keratoconus/symptoms-causes/syc-20351352
No one knows what causes keratoconus, although genetic and environmental factors are thought to be involved. Around 1 in 10 people with keratoconus also has a parent with the condition. […] These factors can increase the risk of developing keratoconus: […] Having a family history of keratoconus. […] Rubbing the eyes vigorously. […] Having certain conditions, such as retinitis pigmentosa, Down syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Marfan syndrome, hay fever and asthma.
- #13 Keratoconus: Symptoms, Causes & Treatmenthttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14415-keratoconus
In most cases, keratoconus has no definite cause. […] The cause of keratoconus is largely unknown. Some studies have found that keratoconus runs in families, and that it happens more often in people who have certain medical conditions. […] In most cases, you dont have an eye injury or a disease that leads to keratoconus. People with keratoconus tend to rub their eyes a lot, which may cause the condition to develop more rapidly. […] Keratoconus has a link to certain conditions that may also be associated with chronic eye rubbing. These conditions include: Atopic dermatitis and allergic dermatitis, Allergic rhinitis, Asthma, Down syndrome, Ehlers-Danos syndrome, Osteogenesis imperfecta, Congenital (present at birth) disorders that affect your eyes, like aniridia.
- #14 Keratoconus: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatmenthttps://www.webmd.com/eye-health/eye-health-keratoconus
Eye rubbing. Rubbing your eyes hard over time can break down the cornea. It can also make keratoconus progress faster if you already have it. […] Race. One study of more than 16,000 people with keratoconus found that people who are Black or Latino are roughly 50% more likely to get it than people who are white. […] Keratoconus related to Down Syndrome. About 5%-30% of children with Down Syndrome have keratoconus. If you’re born with Down Syndrome, your corneas are likely to be thinner and less rounded than those of people without Down Syndrome.
- #15 Is Keratoconus Hereditary?: Stephen Khachikian, MD: Ophthalmologisthttps://www.stevekmd.com/blog/is-keratoconus-hereditary
Keratoconus seldom has one obvious cause. In some cases, several risk factors combine to cause structural changes in the cornea. For example, you can inherit a genetic tendency, but that doesn’t guarantee you will end up with keratoconus. The disease may only begin as a result of other triggers. […] Keratoconus can be passed down as children inherit genetic variants. But only 1 out of 10 people have a family history of keratoconus. In other words, keratoconus is hereditary, but a genetic link isn’t obvious in most people. […] Genes associated with keratoconus are also found in other hereditary conditions that seem unrelated to eye problems, such as Down syndrome and connective tissue disorders. Most children with Down syndrome have vision problems and about 5-30% develop keratoconus. […] Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) includes several types of connective tissue disorders. One type of EDS causes fragile eyes that can easily be damaged and result in keratoconus. Like Down syndrome, EDS and keratoconus also share several genetic variants. […] Another connective tissue disorder, Marfan syndrome, makes patients highly vulnerable to eye damage, including retinal tears and keratoconus.
- #16 Is Keratoconus Hereditary?: Stephen Khachikian, MD: Ophthalmologisthttps://www.stevekmd.com/blog/is-keratoconus-hereditary
Keratoconus seldom has one obvious cause. In some cases, several risk factors combine to cause structural changes in the cornea. For example, you can inherit a genetic tendency, but that doesn’t guarantee you will end up with keratoconus. The disease may only begin as a result of other triggers. […] Keratoconus can be passed down as children inherit genetic variants. But only 1 out of 10 people have a family history of keratoconus. In other words, keratoconus is hereditary, but a genetic link isn’t obvious in most people. […] Genes associated with keratoconus are also found in other hereditary conditions that seem unrelated to eye problems, such as Down syndrome and connective tissue disorders. Most children with Down syndrome have vision problems and about 5-30% develop keratoconus. […] Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) includes several types of connective tissue disorders. One type of EDS causes fragile eyes that can easily be damaged and result in keratoconus. Like Down syndrome, EDS and keratoconus also share several genetic variants. […] Another connective tissue disorder, Marfan syndrome, makes patients highly vulnerable to eye damage, including retinal tears and keratoconus.
- #17 Keratoconus: MedlinePlus GeneticsLockhttps://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/keratoconus/
Keratoconus is an eye condition that affects the shape of the cornea, which is the clear outer covering of the eye. […] The cause of keratoconus is unknown. Researchers have studied many different factors, both genetic and environmental, that are thought to influence the risk of developing keratoconus. […] The environmental factors that may contribute to keratoconus include excessive eye rubbing and the tendency to develop allergic disorders (atopy). […] Approximately one-third of individuals with keratoconus have an allergic disorder, although it is unclear how allergic disorders are related to the development of keratoconus. […] Changes in multiple genes have been associated with developing keratoconus. […] More than a dozen genes have been associated with keratoconus. […] Keratoconus can be a feature of genetic syndromes, such as Leber congenital amaurosis and arterial tortuosity syndrome.
- #18 Keratoconus – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelfhttps://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. […] Although the exact etiology and pathophysiology may not be understood, several risk factors are recognized as predisposing individuals to developing keratoconus, as mentioned below. […] Certain systemic conditions heighten the risk of keratoconus, including Down syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, osteogenesis imperfecta, Leber congenital amaurosis, and Noonan syndrome. […] Some studies reveal an association between keratoconus and certain environmental conditions such as atopic disease, asthma, and hay fever. […] Persistent eye rubbing appears to either cause or exaggerate keratoconus. […] Individuals or their family members, especially first-degree relatives, with a history of keratoconus, have a significantly elevated risk of developing the condition. […] The development of keratoconus has been linked to 73% or 16 out of 22 human chromosomes. […] Keratoconus likely arises from a multifactorial etiology, with both genetic and environmental factors contributing to its development.
- #19 Keratoconus: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatmenthttps://www.webmd.com/eye-health/eye-health-keratoconus
Keratoconus often develops around puberty, though some people get it later in life. […] We dont know exactly what causes keratoconus. Researchers think that some people are more likely to get it from birth. […] Keratoconus may be linked to several things, such as: […] Family history. If someone in your family has this condition, you have a greater chance of getting it. […] Age. It usually starts when youre a teenager. But it might show up earlier in childhood or not until youre 30. […] Certain disorders. Studies have found a connection between keratoconus and systemic conditions such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, osteogenesis imperfecta, and retinitis pigmentosa. […] Inflammation. Inflammation from things such as allergies, asthma, or atopic eye disease can break down the tissue of the cornea.
- #20 Keratoconushttps://healthlibrary.vidanthealth.com/Search/134,548
Keratoconus is an eye disorder in which your cornea thins over time. The cornea also bulges out to form a conelike shape. […] Experts don’t know what causes keratoconus. Some cases may be partly due to genes. […] Some health conditions are linked to this disorder and may help to cause it. They include: Down syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Eye injury (especially from too much eye rubbing or contact lens use), Leber congenital amaurosis, Osteogenesis imperfecta, Retinitis pigmentosa, Retinopathy of prematurity, Vernal keratoconjunctivitis, Sleep apnea. […] Certain factors may increase your risk: A history of poorly fitted contact lenses, Long-term (chronic) eye rubbing due to eye irritation, such as from allergies, Having a health condition linked to keratoconus. […] Experts don’t know exactly what causes it. Some health problems may make it more likely.
- #21 Keratoconus – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelfhttps://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. […] Although the exact etiology and pathophysiology may not be understood, several risk factors are recognized as predisposing individuals to developing keratoconus, as mentioned below. […] Certain systemic conditions heighten the risk of keratoconus, including Down syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, osteogenesis imperfecta, Leber congenital amaurosis, and Noonan syndrome. […] Some studies reveal an association between keratoconus and certain environmental conditions such as atopic disease, asthma, and hay fever. […] Persistent eye rubbing appears to either cause or exaggerate keratoconus. […] Individuals or their family members, especially first-degree relatives, with a history of keratoconus, have a significantly elevated risk of developing the condition. […] The development of keratoconus has been linked to 73% or 16 out of 22 human chromosomes. […] Keratoconus likely arises from a multifactorial etiology, with both genetic and environmental factors contributing to its development.
- #22 Keratoconushttps://healthlibrary.vidanthealth.com/Search/134,548
Keratoconus is an eye disorder in which your cornea thins over time. The cornea also bulges out to form a conelike shape. […] Experts don’t know what causes keratoconus. Some cases may be partly due to genes. […] Some health conditions are linked to this disorder and may help to cause it. They include: Down syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Eye injury (especially from too much eye rubbing or contact lens use), Leber congenital amaurosis, Osteogenesis imperfecta, Retinitis pigmentosa, Retinopathy of prematurity, Vernal keratoconjunctivitis, Sleep apnea. […] Certain factors may increase your risk: A history of poorly fitted contact lenses, Long-term (chronic) eye rubbing due to eye irritation, such as from allergies, Having a health condition linked to keratoconus. […] Experts don’t know exactly what causes it. Some health problems may make it more likely.
- #23 What Conditions Can Cause Keratoconus? | CLI Nevadahttps://www.clinevada.com/what-conditions-can-cause-keratoconus/
Keratoconus is an eye disease that is defined by thinning and steepening of the cornea. These changes can be exacerbated by or initiated by other factors and conditions. […] There are systemic medical conditions which are linked to developing keratoconus and there are other eye conditions which may contribute to the development of the disease. […] A few medical conditions are associated with a risk of developing keratoconus. While there is a known risk for an increased risk of keratoconus, these conditions will not always be linked with developing keratoconus or any other eye condition. […] Many conditions that impact the collagen or bone tissue can be linked to keratoconus. Among these conditions are osteogenesis imperfecta, Marfan syndrome, and Ehler Danlos syndrome. […] These conditions all impact collagen or collagen production. The cornea is composed of the same collagen tissue and when it is damaged can lead to a weaker cornea that is susceptible to keratoconus.
- #24 What Conditions Can Cause Keratoconus? | CLI Nevadahttps://www.clinevada.com/what-conditions-can-cause-keratoconus/
There are also conditions which have a genetic cause and have been linked to an increase in the risk for keratoconus. The two main genetic conditions which are linked to developing keratoconus are Turner Syndrome and Down Syndrome. […] Like the systemic medical conditions that can cause keratoconus, there are eye conditions which can weaken the collagen in the cornea. […] There are several inherited corneal dystrophies that can cause long term damage to the cornea and predispose the cornea to keratoconus. […] Conditions that result in lots of eye rubbing can result in changes to the cornea and lead to keratoconus. Itching from allergies in chronic allergic conditions like atopic keratoconjunctivitis or vernal keratoconjunctivitis may lead to excessive eye rubbing. […] A large number of cases of keratoconus will occur without a specific known cause. These cases may be due to genetic predisposition or may truly be random in nature.
- #25 Keratoconus: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment – Pure Opticalhttps://pureoptical.com/blog/keratoconus/
Chronic eye rubbing is another well-documented cause of keratoconus. This behaviour is often associated with allergies, eye irritation, or conditions like atopic dermatitis, where the eyes are frequently itchy. […] Rubbing your eyes vigorously can cause micro-traumas to the corneal tissue, leading to its gradual weakening and thinning. […] Over time, this repeated trauma can contribute to the development and progression of keratoconus. […] Certain systemic conditions, particularly those involving connective tissue disorders, have been linked to an increased risk of keratoconus. […] Conditions like Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and Down syndrome are known to affect the body’s connective tissues, including the collagen fibres that provide structure and strength to the cornea. […] In these disorders, the corneal tissue may be inherently weaker, making it more prone to the thinning and bulging that occurs in keratoconus.
- #26 Keratoconus | OculaseFacebookTwitterYoutubeQuoteLinkedininstagramleft-arrowup-arrowright-arrowdown-arrowhttps://oculase.com/condition/keratoconus-symptoms-and-stages/
Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition with no known way of preventing it. It affects roughly 1 in every 2000 people and commonly starts to develop around puberty, between ages 10 and 25. […] The main cause for keratoconus is eye rubbing. We have a habit of rubbing our eyes constantly, especially when theyâre irritated or dry or itchy. People who have allergies or contact lens wearers are at a higher risk of eye rubbing and therefore developing keratoconus. It is very important to treat this very important risk factor to ensure that you do not develop keratoconus. […] Mr Tariq Ayoub lists some of the factors that cause keratoconus, including eye rubbing, particularly for allergy sufferers and contact lens wearers, and family history.
- #27 What Causes Keratoconus| KC theories | Genetic/Environmentalhttps://nkcf.org/about-keratoconus/what-causes-keratoconus/
The exact cause of keratoconus is unknown. There are many theories based on research and its association with other conditions. However, no one theory explains it all and it may be caused by a combination of things. […] It is believed that genetics, the environment and the endocrine system all play a role in keratoconus. […] One scientific view is that keratoconus is developmental (i.e., genetic) in origin because in some cases there does appear to be a familial association. […] Some studies show that keratoconus corneas lack important anchoring fibrils that structurally stabilize the anterior cornea. This increased flexibility allows that cornea to âbulge forwardâ into a cone-shaped appearance. […] Keratoconus corneas are more easily damaged by minor trauma such as eye rubbing. […] Many who have keratoconus report vigorous eye rubbing and also have allergies (which cause eye itching and irritation, leading to eye rubbing), however the link to allergic disease also remains unclear.
- #28 Keratoconus Causes Understanding the Factors Behind the visionhttps://vijayanethralaya.com/keratoconus-causes-genetic-environmental-factors/cornea-2/keratoconus/
Keratoconus, which is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, is a multifactorial condition. […] Research suggests that genetic predisposition plays a significant role in the development of keratoconus. Individuals with a family history of keratoconus are at a higher risk of developing the condition themselves. […] In keratoconus, there is evidence of collagen abnormalities, leading to a weakened cornea. […] Researchers have identified excessive eye rubbing as a potential aggravating factor for keratoconus. […] Possible triggers for keratoconus include suggested hormonal imbalances, such as those occurring during puberty or pregnancy. […] Environmental factors, such as excessive ultraviolet (UV) light exposure and chronic eye irritation, may contribute to the development of keratoconus.
- #29 10 Keratoconus Treatments – Plus Causes, Symptomshttps://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/keratoconus/overview-of-keratoconus/
Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease in which the normally round cornea thins and begins to bulge into a cone-like shape. […] Research suggests the weakening of the corneal tissue that leads to keratoconus may be due to an imbalance of enzymes within the cornea. This imbalance makes the cornea more susceptible to oxidative damage from compounds called free radicals, causing it to weaken and bulge forward. […] Risk factors for oxidative damage and weakening of the cornea include a genetic predisposition, explaining why keratoconus often affects more than one member of the same family. […] Keratoconus also is associated with overexposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun, excessive eye rubbing, a history of poorly fitted contact lenses and chronic eye irritation.
- #30 Keratoconus – Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keratoconus
Researches also have shed light on the role of hormones in the pathophysiology of keratoconus. […] Keratoconus has been associated with atopic diseases, which include asthma, allergies, and eczema, and it is not uncommon for several or all of these diseases to affect one person. […] A number of studies suggest vigorous eye rubbing contributes to the progression of keratoconus, and people should be discouraged from the practice.
- #31 Keratoconus: how to recognize symptoms and causes – Emianopsiahttps://www.emianopsia.com/en/keratoconus/
This disease manifests as a dystrophy of the cornea, usually bilateral (about 96% of cases), but develops differently between the two eyes. […] It is a multifactorial pathology, where both genetic and environmental factors are involved: in some patients, autosomal dominant heredity with incomplete penetrance has been found, at least 10 mutated genes have been identified that could promote its occurrence. […] As for environmental factors, exposure from an early age to UV radiation and some behavioural factors such as eye rubbing (typical in children with allergies) determine an additional source of risk.
- #32 Causes â Keratoconus Specialists | Complete Family Eyecarehttps://www.keratoconusmn.com/causes/
Another possible environmental component to keratoconus may be the use of contact lenses, possibly more with rigid lenses, but once again no definitive numbers are available. […] On a cellular level, keratoconus appears to be caused by the loss of Bowmanâs layer of the corneal. […] Although the true cause of keratoconus remains a mystery, ongoing research and new studies will hopefully shed some light on the root of this inconvenient condition.
- #33 Keratoconus: Causes, Risk Factors, Symptoms and Treatment – Downtown Eyeshttps://www.downtowneyes.com/blog/eye-care/keratoconus-causes-risk-factors-symptoms-and-treatment/
Another risk factor for keratoconus is chronic eye rubbing. This may also increase the likelihood of the progression of this eye disease. […] Eye inflammation can occur due to irritants or allergies. Constant inflammation can harm the corneal tissue, which can lead to the development of keratoconus.
- #34 Keratoconus – EyeWikihttps://eyewiki.org/Keratoconus
Keratoconus is an uncommon corneal disorder where the central or paracentral cornea undergoes progressive thinning and steepening, causing irregular astigmatism. […] The etiology is unknown, but several factors leading to progression have been described. Inheritance and environmental factors are suggested to play a role in the pathogenesis of ectatic corneal diseases, with 8% resulting from genetic mutations and 92% from environmental factors. […] Keratoconus is associated with atopy and eye rubbing. Eye rubbing and repeated trauma in genetically predisposed individuals results in keratoconus and its progression. […] Systemic disorders such as Down syndrome, Leber congenital amaurosis, and Ehlers-Danlos/connective disorders are also associated with keratoconus. […] Histopathology studies demonstrated breaks in or complete absence of Bowman layer, collagen disorganization, scarring, and thinning. The etiology of these changes is unknown, though some suspect changes in enzymes that lead to the breakdown of collagen in the cornea.
- #35 Keratoconus – EyeWikihttps://eyewiki.org/Keratoconus
While a genetic predisposition to keratoconus is suggested, a specific gene has not been identified. […] Studies show a significant role of proteolytic enzymes, cytokines, and free radicals (matrix metalloproteinase 9 [MMP-9], interleukin 6 [IL-6], tumor necrosis factor alpha [TNF-]) even in subclinical disease, showing a quasi-inflammatory characteristic in keratoconus.
- #36 Keratoconus – EyeWikihttps://eyewiki.org/Keratoconus
Keratoconus is an uncommon corneal disorder where the central or paracentral cornea undergoes progressive thinning and steepening, causing irregular astigmatism. […] The etiology is unknown, but several factors leading to progression have been described. Inheritance and environmental factors are suggested to play a role in the pathogenesis of ectatic corneal diseases, with 8% resulting from genetic mutations and 92% from environmental factors. […] Keratoconus is associated with atopy and eye rubbing. Eye rubbing and repeated trauma in genetically predisposed individuals results in keratoconus and its progression. […] Systemic disorders such as Down syndrome, Leber congenital amaurosis, and Ehlers-Danlos/connective disorders are also associated with keratoconus. […] Histopathology studies demonstrated breaks in or complete absence of Bowman layer, collagen disorganization, scarring, and thinning. The etiology of these changes is unknown, though some suspect changes in enzymes that lead to the breakdown of collagen in the cornea.
- #37 What Causes Keratoconus| KC theories | Genetic/Environmentalhttps://nkcf.org/about-keratoconus/what-causes-keratoconus/
The exact cause of keratoconus is unknown. There are many theories based on research and its association with other conditions. However, no one theory explains it all and it may be caused by a combination of things. […] It is believed that genetics, the environment and the endocrine system all play a role in keratoconus. […] One scientific view is that keratoconus is developmental (i.e., genetic) in origin because in some cases there does appear to be a familial association. […] Some studies show that keratoconus corneas lack important anchoring fibrils that structurally stabilize the anterior cornea. This increased flexibility allows that cornea to âbulge forwardâ into a cone-shaped appearance. […] Keratoconus corneas are more easily damaged by minor trauma such as eye rubbing. […] Many who have keratoconus report vigorous eye rubbing and also have allergies (which cause eye itching and irritation, leading to eye rubbing), however the link to allergic disease also remains unclear.
- #38 Understanding Keratoconus: Causes, Symptoms, and Managementhttps://daviseyecare.com/eye-health/keratoconus/
The corneal in Keratoconus does not have the supporting tissue to support the corneal structure. […] Patients with keratoconus has been shown to be absent of these natural cross-linking fibers. […] The bulk of the cornea is made from collagen fibers which are arranged in bundles. […] The only non-surgical method to provide adequate vision for the keratoconus patient is replacing the deformed cornea with a regular front surface for the eye -this is accomplished by the fitting of a special rigid contact lens. […] The choice you are giving the insurance company is either the less expensive contact lens or the more expensive corneal transplant.
- #39 Keratoconus Causes Understanding the Factors Behind the visionhttps://vijayanethralaya.com/keratoconus-causes-genetic-environmental-factors/cornea-2/keratoconus/
Scientists have implicated an imbalance in the enzymes responsible for maintaining the structure of the cornea in the development of keratoconus. […] In conclusion, researchers have identified keratoconus as a multifactorial condition influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. […] They suggest that factors such as genetic predisposition, collagen abnormalities, enzyme imbalances, hormonal changes, chronic eye rubbing, and environmental triggers may play a role.
- #40 Keratoconus – EyeWikihttps://eyewiki.org/Keratoconus
While a genetic predisposition to keratoconus is suggested, a specific gene has not been identified. […] Studies show a significant role of proteolytic enzymes, cytokines, and free radicals (matrix metalloproteinase 9 [MMP-9], interleukin 6 [IL-6], tumor necrosis factor alpha [TNF-]) even in subclinical disease, showing a quasi-inflammatory characteristic in keratoconus.
- #41 The Genetic and Environmental Factors for Keratoconushttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4449900/
An excess of any of these environmental factors cause oxidative damage to KC corneas because of the inability of KC corneas to process reactive oxygen species (ROS), which leads to a degradation process leading ultimately to corneal thinning and loss of vision due to a lack of corneal enzymes such as aldehyde dehydrogenase class 3 (ALDH3), catalase, or superoxide dismutase to remove or neutralize the ROS. […] It is commonly accepted that the etiology of KC is multifactorial combining environmental and genetic factors. […] The recent data on the strong association of parental consanguinity/endogamy with KC suggests a strong genetic component to the development of KC in many studies. […] The large variation in the percentage of family members with the disease may indicate different expression of KC with different modes of inheritance.
- #42 Keratoconus Specialist Los Angeles – Keratoconus Treatmenthttps://keratoconusinserts.com/
Keratoconus is an eye condition where the center of the cornea bulges or forms waves due to thinning of the cornea. […] The cause of keratoconus was unknown until recent research showed it is due to a lack of anti-oxidant enzymes in the cornea that leads to damaged collagen fibers. There are also both genetic and environmental factors. […] Eye rubbing, trauma to the eye, genetics and disorders like Marfan syndrome and Down syndrome have all been found to elevate ones risk for Keratoconus.
- #43 The Genetic and Environmental Factors for Keratoconushttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4449900/
An excess of any of these environmental factors cause oxidative damage to KC corneas because of the inability of KC corneas to process reactive oxygen species (ROS), which leads to a degradation process leading ultimately to corneal thinning and loss of vision due to a lack of corneal enzymes such as aldehyde dehydrogenase class 3 (ALDH3), catalase, or superoxide dismutase to remove or neutralize the ROS. […] It is commonly accepted that the etiology of KC is multifactorial combining environmental and genetic factors. […] The recent data on the strong association of parental consanguinity/endogamy with KC suggests a strong genetic component to the development of KC in many studies. […] The large variation in the percentage of family members with the disease may indicate different expression of KC with different modes of inheritance.
- #44 Keratoconus – EyeWikihttps://eyewiki.org/Keratoconus
While a genetic predisposition to keratoconus is suggested, a specific gene has not been identified. […] Studies show a significant role of proteolytic enzymes, cytokines, and free radicals (matrix metalloproteinase 9 [MMP-9], interleukin 6 [IL-6], tumor necrosis factor alpha [TNF-]) even in subclinical disease, showing a quasi-inflammatory characteristic in keratoconus.
- #45 The Genetic and Environmental Factors for Keratoconushttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4449900/
Keratoconus (KC) is the most common cornea ectatic disorder. It is characterized by a cone-shaped thin cornea leading to myopia, irregular astigmatism, and vision impairment. […] Both environmental and genetic factors may contribute to its pathogenesis. […] It is a corneal disorder in which the central portion of the cornea becomes thinner and bulges forward in a cone-shaped fashion resulting in myopia, irregular astigmatism, and eventually visual impairment. […] However, recent evidence of overexpression of inflammatory mediators such as cytokines and interleukin 6 (IL-6) in tears of KC patients and in subclinical KC may refute this concept and inflammation is currently considered by some researchers to play a role in the pathogenesis of KC. […] Environmental factors, which have been recognized, are eye rubbing, atopy, and UV exposure, although the relative contribution of all these factors is currently unknown.
- #46 Keratoconus: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatmenthttps://www.webmd.com/eye-health/eye-health-keratoconus
Keratoconus often develops around puberty, though some people get it later in life. […] We dont know exactly what causes keratoconus. Researchers think that some people are more likely to get it from birth. […] Keratoconus may be linked to several things, such as: […] Family history. If someone in your family has this condition, you have a greater chance of getting it. […] Age. It usually starts when youre a teenager. But it might show up earlier in childhood or not until youre 30. […] Certain disorders. Studies have found a connection between keratoconus and systemic conditions such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, osteogenesis imperfecta, and retinitis pigmentosa. […] Inflammation. Inflammation from things such as allergies, asthma, or atopic eye disease can break down the tissue of the cornea.
- #47 What Causes Keratoconus| KC theories | Genetic/Environmentalhttps://nkcf.org/about-keratoconus/what-causes-keratoconus/
Some studies indicate an abnormal processing of the superoxide radicals in the keratoconus cornea and an involvement of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of this disease. […] Another hypothesis is that the endocrine system may be involved because keratoconus is generally first detected at puberty and progresses during pregnancy. This theory is still controversial and has not been proven.
- #48 Causes of Keratoconus and Treatment Options – Clearview Eyeshttps://www.clearvieweyes.com/procedures/keratoconus/causes
Keratoconus, a condition marked by the progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea, remains somewhat enigmatic in its origins. A blend of hormonal changes, genetic factors, and environmental influences is believed to contribute to its development. […] The onset of keratoconus often coincides with puberty, a period of significant hormonal shifts, and its progression typically stabilizes around the age of 30. This temporal pattern suggests a potential link between hormonal changes and the progression of keratoconus. […] While there’s a belief in the genetic predisposition to keratoconus, the likelihood of direct inheritance is relatively low, with less than a 10% chance among immediate relatives of affected individuals. Interestingly, the majority of keratoconus patients do not report a family history of the condition, highlighting the complexity of its genetic aspects.
- #49 Keratoconus Causes: Unraveling the Mystery of Corneal Thinning | The Eye Foundationhttps://www.theeyefoundation.com/eye/keratoconus-causes
While genetics play a primary role, environmental factors can trigger or accelerate the progression of keratoconus. Excessive eye rubbing is a significant risk factor, as it can damage the delicate corneal cells and contribute to corneal thinning. Allergic eye diseases, such as atopic dermatitis and hay fever, can also increase the risk of keratoconus. Additionally, certain autoimmune disorders, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and Marfan syndrome, are associated with an increased prevalence of keratoconus. […] Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during adolescence and pregnancy, may also play a role in the development or progression of keratoconus. Estrogen, a female sex hormone, is thought to influence collagen production and corneal structure. During periods of hormonal changes, the cornea may become more susceptible to thinning and distortion. […] While the exact cause of keratoconus remains elusive, ongoing research continues to shed light on the underlying mechanisms. Understanding the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to keratoconus is crucial for developing effective preventive measures and treatment strategies.
- #50 What Causes Keratoconus| KC theories | Genetic/Environmentalhttps://nkcf.org/about-keratoconus/what-causes-keratoconus/
Some studies indicate an abnormal processing of the superoxide radicals in the keratoconus cornea and an involvement of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of this disease. […] Another hypothesis is that the endocrine system may be involved because keratoconus is generally first detected at puberty and progresses during pregnancy. This theory is still controversial and has not been proven.
- #51 Keratoconus: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatmenthttps://www.webmd.com/eye-health/eye-health-keratoconus
Eye rubbing. Rubbing your eyes hard over time can break down the cornea. It can also make keratoconus progress faster if you already have it. […] Race. One study of more than 16,000 people with keratoconus found that people who are Black or Latino are roughly 50% more likely to get it than people who are white. […] Keratoconus related to Down Syndrome. About 5%-30% of children with Down Syndrome have keratoconus. If you’re born with Down Syndrome, your corneas are likely to be thinner and less rounded than those of people without Down Syndrome.
- #52 Keratoconus – Moorfields Eye Hospitalhttps://www.moorfields.nhs.uk/eye-conditions/keratoconus
The exact cause of keratoconus remains unknown, although its believed that both genetic and environmental factors can have an impact. […] It is estimated that around 1 in 10 people with the eye condition keratoconus will have a 1st degree family member who is also affected. However, keratoconus is not typically considered to be an inherited disease. […] There are also a number of factors that may increase your chances of developing the keratoconus eye disease. It occurs more commonly in individuals with certain allergic conditions, including asthma and eczema, and is more likely to develop in non-caucasian ethnicity groups.
- #53 Keratoconus – information, causes and treatment | RNIBhttps://www.rnib.org.uk/your-eyes/eye-conditions-az/keratoconus/
The cause of keratoconus is not completely understood. Its not caused by an infection or inflammation. Keratoconus is usually diagnosed when someone is in their late teens or early twenties, and it affects men and women equally. It is more common in non-Caucasian people. […] Keratoconus is not considered to be an inherited condition but for around 10% (1 in 10) of people who have keratoconus, it does affect more than one member of their family. However, most people have no family history of the condition. […] Its possible that people who have allergies might be more likely to develop keratoconus. Allergies can cause your eyes to become itchy and uncomfortable, making you more likely to rub them.
- #54 Keratoconus | OculaseFacebookTwitterYoutubeQuoteLinkedininstagramleft-arrowup-arrowright-arrowdown-arrowhttps://oculase.com/condition/keratoconus-symptoms-and-stages/
Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition with no known way of preventing it. It affects roughly 1 in every 2000 people and commonly starts to develop around puberty, between ages 10 and 25. […] The main cause for keratoconus is eye rubbing. We have a habit of rubbing our eyes constantly, especially when theyâre irritated or dry or itchy. People who have allergies or contact lens wearers are at a higher risk of eye rubbing and therefore developing keratoconus. It is very important to treat this very important risk factor to ensure that you do not develop keratoconus. […] Mr Tariq Ayoub lists some of the factors that cause keratoconus, including eye rubbing, particularly for allergy sufferers and contact lens wearers, and family history.
- #55 Causes â Keratoconus Specialists | Complete Family Eyecarehttps://www.keratoconusmn.com/causes/
The exact cause of keratoconus remains elusive. Contributing factors seem to include genetic and possible hormonal factors but environmental factors may also play a role in the development of keratoconus. […] In regard to genetic components, keratoconus appears to run sporadically in families but without any sort of direct inheritance pattern. Studies have suggested a 5% to 20% increase in chances of developing keratoconus if other family members have the condition. […] Keratoconus is much more common in males than females suggesting a possible hormonal component but an exact mechanism has never been determined. […] The presence of atopic (skin) conditions such as dermatitis, eczema, and allergies are also a risk factor in the development of keratoconus. […] From an environmental perspective, there is some degree of correlation but no definitive numbers on the increase risk of keratoconus due to eye rubbing.
- #56 Keratoconus: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatmenthttps://www.healthline.com/health/eye-health/keratoconus
Keratoconus is a progressive condition characterized by a thinning of the cornea that causes it to lose its symmetrical dome shape. […] Researchers still dont fully understand why some people develop keratoconus. In most cases, it develops for no apparent reason. Its generally thought that both environmental and genetic factors play a role in its development. […] Its thought that some people with keratoconus may carry genes that make them predisposed to its development if theyre exposed to certain environmental factors. […] Keratoconus sometimes occurs in the presence of certain underlying disorders, but a direct cause and effect hasnt been established. […] Some environmental risk factors may contribute to the development of keratoconus including excessive eye rubbing and wearing contacts. […] In many cases, its not clear why keratoconus develops. Some people with keratoconus have a family history of the disease.
- #57 Keratoconus: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment – Pure Opticalhttps://pureoptical.com/blog/keratoconus/
Chronic eye rubbing is another well-documented cause of keratoconus. This behaviour is often associated with allergies, eye irritation, or conditions like atopic dermatitis, where the eyes are frequently itchy. […] Rubbing your eyes vigorously can cause micro-traumas to the corneal tissue, leading to its gradual weakening and thinning. […] Over time, this repeated trauma can contribute to the development and progression of keratoconus. […] Certain systemic conditions, particularly those involving connective tissue disorders, have been linked to an increased risk of keratoconus. […] Conditions like Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and Down syndrome are known to affect the body’s connective tissues, including the collagen fibres that provide structure and strength to the cornea. […] In these disorders, the corneal tissue may be inherently weaker, making it more prone to the thinning and bulging that occurs in keratoconus.
- #58 What Causes Keratoconus – Dr. Leonard – California Keratoconus Centerhttps://drbleonard.com/what-causes-keratoconus/
What Causes Keratoconus? […] Although doctors have not yet identified the exact cause of Keratoconus, the condition generally appears to be passed down through families. […] For this reason, many researchers believe that a family history is the primary risk factor for Keratoconus. […] Various studies have shown that corneas affected by Keratoconus are missing some of the fibrils that normally stabilize the anterior cornea, which causes the cornea to swell forward. […] Corneas affected by Keratoconus usually lack this essential system. […] This genetic predisposition toward Keratoconus can be intensified by a wide range of environmental and medical factors. […] Although eye doctors have debated what causes Keratoconus for years, researchers have yet to determine a single conclusive cause. […] The most likely explanation is that a genetic tendency to develop Keratoconus is exacerbated by bad habits and secondary medical issues.
- #59 Causes of Keratoconus and Treatment Options – Clearview Eyeshttps://www.clearvieweyes.com/procedures/keratoconus/causes
Environmental triggers, particularly allergies that lead to frequent eye rubbing, have been implicated in the exacerbation of keratoconus. The mechanical stress from rubbing can weaken the cornea, especially when combined with the oxidative stress from an impaired ability to process free radicals, potentially accelerating corneal degradation.
- #60 Etiology and Risk Factors of Keratoconus | SpringerLinkhttps://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-981-19-4262-4_2
Keratoconus (KC) is a common condition that affects the cornea and is characterized by bilateral, progressive corneal thinning that results in an abnormally steep cornea and decreased vision. If left untreated, KC can lead to blindness. The etiology of KC is largely unknown despite its increasing prevalence. It appears to be a heterogeneous disorder caused by both genetic and environmental factors. […] Recent studies have made headway into identifying genetic risk factors for KC, but only a small portion of the overall genetic component has been identified. Several environmental risk factors have been reported to be associated with KC, but their individual contributions are difficult to explain due to the presence of many confounding variables. Various strategies have been employed to better understand the etiology of KC as this will provide important information as to the underlying mechanisms leading to the condition and with the intent of developing therapies that treat the disease. […] In this chapter, we summarize our current knowledge of the etiology and risk factors associated with KC.
- #61 The pathogenesis of keratoconus | Eyehttps://www.nature.com/articles/eye2013278
Keratoconus (KC) is a common degenerative condition that frequently results in visual loss with an onset typically in early adulthood. […] The cause and underlying pathological mechanism are unknown, but both environmental and genetic factors are thought to contribute to the development of the disease. […] Thus, despite a great deal of research, the aetiology of KC is still poorly understood. […] For KC the currently recognised environmental influences include contact lens wear, chronic eye rubbing and allergic eye disease. […] Although the majority of cases of KC are sporadic, reports of familial cases of KC are also common and aggregation of the disease in families is often observed. […] The prevalence of KC in first degree relatives of index cases has been estimated to be 3.34%, notably higher than that in the general population.
- #62 Keratoconus Causes Understanding the Factors Behind the visionhttps://vijayanethralaya.com/keratoconus-causes-genetic-environmental-factors/cornea-2/keratoconus/
Scientists have implicated an imbalance in the enzymes responsible for maintaining the structure of the cornea in the development of keratoconus. […] In conclusion, researchers have identified keratoconus as a multifactorial condition influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. […] They suggest that factors such as genetic predisposition, collagen abnormalities, enzyme imbalances, hormonal changes, chronic eye rubbing, and environmental triggers may play a role.
- #63 HSC researcher discovered a potential cause for keratoconushttps://www.unthsc.edu/newsroom/story/hsc-researcher-discovered-a-potential-cause-for-keratoconus/
Dr. Dimitrios Karamichos has been examining the link between an eye disease, keratoconus, and EVs in tears. For the first time, Karamichos and his co-investigators identified, isolated and characterized tear EVs in subjects stricken with the disease. Their work has the potential to solve the rubric of exactly what causes the debilitating eye condition and how to treat it. […] The cause of keratoconus is unknown, but most researchers think it is a combination of genetics, hormonal imbalances and environmental factors, such as allergies and eye rubbing. […] Keratoconus is such an unpredictable, multifactorial disease that causes vision problems to a lot of people. […] Keratoconus disease and the status of the tear film are intimately connected, but it is not clear at this point what component within the tear fluid contributes to the pathobiology of the disease.
- #64 New research investigates the genetic causes of keratoconus | CERANew research investigates the genetic causes of keratoconus | CERAhttps://www.cera.org.au/uncovering-the-causes-of-keratoconus/
A new study aims to reveal crucial insights into the causes of keratoconus, a condition of the cornea that predominantly affects young adults and children. […] Although the prevalence of keratoconus is increasing, there is still a lot we donât know about the disease, its causes and the ways to prevent the condition. […] To uncover insights into the genetic causes of keratoconus, Dr Sahebjada is leading a new study that will examine the corneas of people with the condition. […] This gives us a comprehensive look at the corneal tissue to help us try to identify which layers are being affected and where the disease is originating, says Dr Sahebjada. […] In the long term, this work could provide insights that help identify high-risk patients and stop the progression of the disease to more advanced stages, hopefully reducing the need for corneal transplants. […] We hope that by collecting unified research data and sharing it with one another, we can develop a globally accepted classification system to monitor the disease progression and promote a more consistent approach to diagnosis and treatment, Dr Sahebjada says.
- #65 What causes keratoconus? – OculaseFacebookTwitterYoutubeQuoteLinkedininstagramleft-arrowup-arrowright-arrowdown-arrowhttps://oculase.com/videos/answerpack/keratoconus-symptoms/keratoconus/what-causes-keratoconus/
Keratoconus is usually diagnosed during an assessment for laser vision correction procedures, such as LASIK and TransPRK. If you have keratoconus, you should never have LASIK as it will make your keratoconus worse. […] The main cause for keratoconus is eye rubbing. We have a habit of rubbing our eyes constantly, especially when theyâre irritated or dry or itchy. People who have allergies or contact lens wearers are at a higher risk of eye rubbing and therefore developing keratoconus. It is very important to treat this very important risk factor to ensure that you do not develop keratoconus. […] Keratoconus itself does not cause total blindness. However, if left untreated, it can lead to near total blindness, which would require a corneal transplant to give you good vision. Therefore, it is very important that you be treated early so that your quality of life and your quality of vision is maintained through life.
- #66 Keratoconus Treatment: Causes of Keratoconus – Dr. Rifat Rasierhttps://www.rifatrasier.com/en/keratoconus-treatment/
Keratoconus is a condition where the part of the cornea near the center becomes thinner and takes a conical shape. As a result, vision is impaired. […] The cause of keratoconus is unknown. However, there are studies showing that it is a hereditary condition. Some studies have linked keratoconus to allergies such as asthma and eczema. It has been found that poorly fitted contact lenses and excessive friction of the eye can also contribute to this. […] Untreated keratoconus can lead to permanent vision loss. Changes in the cornea make it difficult to see with glasses or with standard soft contact lenses or without glasses.