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Corneal ectasia in vernal keratoconjunctivitis
J A Cameron1, A A Al-Rajhi, I A Badr
1Anterior Segment/External Disease Division, King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Ophthalmology
|November 1, 1989
Summary
Vernal keratoconjunctivitis patients with corneal ectasia, particularly keratoconus, experience higher hydrops rates and reduced success with contact lenses or penetrating keratoplasty due to potential eye rubbing.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Diseases
- Allergic Eye Disease
Background:
- Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a severe allergic eye condition.
- VKC can lead to various forms of corneal ectasia.
- Eye rubbing is a common behavior in VKC patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the types of corneal ectasia in VKC patients.
- To assess the impact of VKC on Descemet's membrane integrity.
- To evaluate the outcomes of contact lens wear and penetrating keratoplasty in these patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 61 patients with corneal ectasia and VKC.
- Categorization of ectasia types: keratoconus, pellucid marginal corneal degeneration, keratoglobus, superior corneal thinning.
- Analysis of contact lens wear success and penetrating keratoplasty outcomes.
Main Results:
- Keratoconus was the most prevalent ectasia type (53 patients).
- High rates of corneal hydrops observed, potentially linked to excessive eye rubbing.
- Lower success rates for contact lens wear and penetrating keratoplasty in VKC patients with keratoconus compared to those without VKC.
Conclusions:
- Excessive eye rubbing in VKC may contribute to corneal ectasia and hydrops.
- VKC complicates the management of corneal ectasia, reducing treatment success.
- Further research is needed to understand the specific mechanisms and improve outcomes.