Keratoconus Research Paper

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Keratoconus Treatment
By: Jeannie Tran
Contact Lens Grand Rounds
Southern California College of Optometry at MBKU
Fullerton, CA
About the Author:
Jeannie Tran received her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at James Madison
University in Harrisonburg, VA in 2012. She is currently a third year student pursing a degree in
Doctorate of Optometry at Southern California College of Optometry at MBKU. She plans on pursuing a career in private practice in Texas after graduation.
Abstract:
Keratoconus is a progressive corneal deformity characterized by thinning and protrusion, which occurs in 1 out of 2000 patients.1 It is the most common corneal ectasia typically presenting in teens and early twenties with no gender or race predilection.2 The etiology …show more content…

JR reported good compliance with lens hygiene and denied sleeping in the lenses.
Examination of the corneas revealed SPK and scratch mark staining due to application and removal. Artificial tears were prescribed, qid. No other findings were remarkable.
DISCUSSION
Keratoconus is a progressive corneal deformity that is characterized by thinning and protrusion with subsequent visual impairment due to irregular astigmatism and high myopia.1 It is the most common primary corneal ectasia and occurs in up to 0.6% of the population
(1:2000).2 This condition is typically bilateral, asymmetrical, with no gender or race predilection and presents in teenagers and young adults.2 Treatment with spectacle correction often becomes inadequate in providing the best-correct visual acuity and is eventually replaced with more advanced treatment modalities such as corneal GP lenses and even surgery.3
Keratoconus can be classified based on morphology as a nipple (paracentral, inferior nasal), oval (inferior temporal), or globus (large, majority of cornea).3 The etiology and pathological mechanism are not fully understood but it is speculated that environmental …show more content…

The procedure involves replacement of the host epithelium and stroma, while leaving the descemet’s membrane and endothelium intact.21 The preservation of the host endothelium decreases the risk of endothelial graft rejection and improves graft survival.2 Outcomes of DALK are similar to penetrating keratoplasty in terms of visual acuity and astigmatism.21 With a variety of treatment modalities available, patient education is critical in choosing the most appropriate option that suits their lifestyle and needs while taking into consideration patient

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