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Association Between Keratoconus and Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Shayan Lahijanian1, Himal Kandel, Richard Kha
1Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
Cornea
|June 22, 2026
Summary
A genetic link between ulcerative colitis and keratoconus was found. However, patient studies did not consistently confirm this association, highlighting the need for further research.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Gastroenterology
- Genetics
Background:
- Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition impacting vision.
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) encompasses chronic gastrointestinal disorders.
- Understanding systemic disease associations with keratoconus is crucial for early diagnosis and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and keratoconus.
- To analyze existing literature for genetic and patient-focused evidence linking IBD and keratoconus.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review and meta-analysis of 5 major databases (PubMed, Ovid Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase) was performed.
- Studies were categorized into patient-focused and genetic association studies.
- Meta-analysis of patient studies and bias assessments using Q-GENIE and ROBINS-E were conducted.
Main Results:
- Nine studies were included in the systematic review, with 3 in the meta-analysis.
- Patient studies showed a non-significant aggregate odds ratio of 1.39 (95% CI: 0.82-2.37).
- Genetic studies revealed a significant association between IBD/ulcerative colitis and keratoconus, but patient studies lacked consistent replication.
Conclusions:
- A genetic association exists between ulcerative colitis and keratoconus.
- This association requires further validation through consistent patient-focused studies.
- Early detection and management of keratoconus are vital for vision preservation.
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