A Case-Control Study of Keratoconus Risk Factors

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Corneal Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition affecting corneal shape.
• Identifying risk factors is crucial for early detection and prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate potential risk factors associated with the development of keratoconus.
• To evaluate the correlation between specific behaviors and keratoconus incidence.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, case-control study involving 202 keratoconus patients and 355 controls.
• Data collection included eye rubbing patterns, allergies, dry eye history, screen time, and sleep position.
• Multivariable analysis was employed to determine statistically significant risk factors.

Main Results:

• Significant risk factors for keratoconus include eye rubbing (knuckles OR=8.29, fingertips OR=5.34), history of dry eye (OR=4.16), and male sex (OR=4.16).
• Increased screen time (OR=1.02) and prone (OR=11.63) or side (OR=10.17) sleep positions were also significantly associated with keratoconus.
• These findings highlight the impact of mechanical eye stress and lifestyle factors.

Conclusions:

• Eye rubbing, particularly with knuckles, demonstrates a strong association with keratoconus.
• Sleep position, screen time, and history of dry eye are identified as potential contributing factors requiring further research.
• These insights can inform preventative measures and patient counseling for keratoconus.