Is keratoconus more severe in pediatric population?

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Corneal Diseases
• Pediatric Eye Care

Background:

• Keratoconus (KC) is a progressive corneal ectasia affecting vision.
• Understanding KC severity differences between pediatric and adult populations is crucial for timely intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare ophthalmic parameters and keratoconus (KC) severity in pediatric versus adult patients at initial diagnosis.
• To analyze differences in topographic, keratometric, and tomographic metrics between age groups.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective observational study comparing pediatric (<18 years) and adult (≥18 years) KC patients.
• Diagnosis confirmed by slit-lamp examination and Pentacam imaging.
• Amsler-Krumeich classification used for KC severity assessment.

Main Results:

• Pediatric KC patients showed significantly higher keratometry, astigmatism, and anterior/posterior elevation, with thinner corneas.
• No significant differences in visual acuity or refractive error were observed between groups.
• Pediatric patients presented with more severe KC based on Amsler-Krumeich classification.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric keratoconus is generally more severe at diagnosis than in adults.
• Children with KC require close monitoring and aggressive treatment strategies.
• Findings highlight the need for specialized pediatric KC management protocols.