[Associations of HLA class I haplotype antigens with various patterns of keratoconus]

Analysis of deviations in the distribution of HLA antigens and haplotypes characteristic of each of the three patterns of keratocone revealed a genetic predisposition to the development of a certain pattern of the illness. HLA-B27 antigen in the phenotype and increased incidence of haplotypes A2-B27 and A3-B35 were typical of patients with the progressive course of keratocone. In patients with a favorable course of the illness the incidence of HLA-A2 and B15 was the highest. Patients with a history of acute keratocone were characterized by an increased incidence of HLA-A1, A19, B7, and complete absence of HLA-A2. Our findings will help predict the course of keratocone and its relapses presenting as acute keratocone and plan the treatment strategy with due consideration for the immunogenetic features.