Keratoconus

Corneal ectasia is an umbrella term for a group of conditions that cause a progressive thinning and distortion of the corneal shape. These conditions include keratoconus, keratoglobus, pellucid marginal degeneration, Terrien’s marginal degeneration, and post-operative astigmatism related to LASIK, RK, PRK, PTK or corneal transplant.

According to the National Eye Institute, approximately one out of every 2,000 people in the United States develops keratoconus, the most common corneal ectasia, in which the cornea thins and bulges outward, forming a cone shape. This change in shape produces blur and distortion of vision. Corneal ectasia may also result in scarring, light sensitivity, and pain.

For many people with this condition, glasses or contact lenses will not work and it is a struggle to find good options for vision correction. As keratoconus is a progressive condition, the cornea continues to change over time.

Patients who have corneal scarring or pain, recurrent corneal erosions due to poor-fitting contact lenses, or who are intolerant to soft contact lenses or RGP lenses are often good candidates for PROSE treatment. PROSE treatment uses specially designed prosthetic scleral lenses that vault over the corneal surface, creating a reservoir between the cornea and the lens. The reservoir is filled with preservative-free saline to bathe and hydrate the eye all day, providing immediate relief and comfort, and promoting healing. PROSE prosthetic lenses also provide improved vision. Think of the lens as a “new” cornea, which creates the shape of a typical, healthy cornea. This allows light to enter the eye at the correct angle for excellent vision.

To learn more about keratoconus, visit the National Keratoconus Foundation.