Current optometric practices and attitudes in keratoconus patient management

Area of Science:

• Optometry and Vision Science
• Ophthalmology
• Corneal Disease Management

Background:

• Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition requiring specialized optometric management.
• Understanding current practices is crucial for improving patient care and outcomes.
• Variations in healthcare systems may influence management strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare optometric practices and attitudes in keratoconus patient management between the UK and Spain.
• To identify similarities and differences in diagnostic and treatment approaches.
• To gather insights into the use of specific tools and referral patterns.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was distributed to optometrists in the UK and Spain via professional organizations.
• The survey focused on current optometric practices and attitudes towards keratoconus management.
• Data from 464 practitioners (126 UK, 338 Spain) were analyzed.

Main Results:

• UK optometrists prescribed gas permeable (GP) contact lenses more frequently than Spanish counterparts (54.8% vs 28.1%).
• Both countries showed consensus on the complexity of GP lens fitting for keratoconus and the need for multiple diagnostic lenses.
• Corneal topography use was less common in the UK (38.1%) compared to Spain (59.8%), with similar ophthalmologist referral rates at initial diagnosis (50%).

Conclusions:

• Optometrists in the UK and Spain exhibit similar professional practices and attitudes regarding keratoconus management.
• Despite some differences in GP lens prescription rates and topography use, core management principles appear consistent.
• Further research into co-management strategies could enhance patient care.