Keratoconus :
Keratoconus is a bilateral progressive thinning of cornea of unknown cause. This typically starts during adolescence. It is usually an inherited corneal disorder which means that approximately 50% of family members may have it.
Cornea is the clear outer surface of the eye that permits light to enter the eye & focus on the retina. The cornea consists of finely arranged layers (lamellae) of connective tissue called collagen that make up to 90% of its substance.
The chemical bonds (cross links) in between these layers get weaker in keratoconus leading to progressive thinning and stretching of the cornea. Normal pressure within the eye causes the cornea to bulge forward into an irregular cone shape.
In early stages of keratoconus, Rigid gas permeable contact lenses can be tried. But in progressive cases, corneal collagen cross-linking is the treatment of choice.
Corneal Collagen Crosslinking with Riboflavin (C3-R) :
A new non surgical, non invasive treatment, based on collagen cross linking with Ultraviolet A (UVA, 365nm) and riboflavin (Vitamin B 2), a photosensitizing agent is now available. This changes the intrinsic biomechanical properties of the cornea, increasing its mechanical strength. This increase in corneal strength has shown to arrest the progression of keratoconus.
The eye is then exposed to UVA light for 30 minutes. Hence, the treatment takes about an hour per eye. After the treatment, antibiotic eye drops are applied; a bandage contact lens may be applied, which will be removed during the follow up visit.
However one need to understand that Collagen cross-linking treatment is not a cure for keratoconus, rather, it aims to slow the progression of the condition. However following the cross-linking treatment it makes the patient more comfortable to wear contact lens.
The main aim of this treatment is to arrest progression of keratoconus, and thereby prevent further deterioration in vision and the need for corneal transplantation.
Have any queries please feel free to leave a comment subsequent response is assured.
For more details please click on the link:
http://www.rushabheyehospital.com/
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2 comments:
Thanks for the information on riboflavin treatment. I am glad that advances are being made for the treatment of the disease. Penetrating keratoplasty has so many complications that other forms of treatment are a ray of hope for those who deal with keratoconus.
Dr Wallace many thanks for sharing your valuable time and giving your comment.
Riboflavin with CLX is the most latest and treatment for keretoconus and at our center we have performed almost 300 such procedures over a period of last one year.
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