[Contact correction: method for arresting the progress of keratoconus]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Corneal Diseases
• Optometry

Background:

• Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition affecting corneal shape.
• Understanding factors influencing keratoconus progression is crucial for patient management.
• The role of rigid contact lenses in disease modification requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of rigid contact lenses on keratoconus progression across different disease stages.
• To compare the rate of keratoconus advancement with and without rigid contact lens wear.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 121 patients (234 eyes) aged 11-49 years with keratoconus was studied.
• Progression rates were analyzed based on disease stage and contact lens use.
• Time to disease progression was recorded for patients with and without rigid contact lenses.

Main Results:

• Early-onset keratoconus demonstrated more rapid disease progression.
• The transition from initial to terminal stage keratoconus took 7 years with rigid lenses versus 4 years without.
• Progression between stages averaged over 2 years with contact lens correction, compared to less than 1.5 years without.

Conclusions:

• Rigid contact lenses appear to inhibit keratoconus progression, but this effect is limited to the initial stage of the disease.
• The use of rigid contact lenses can significantly prolong the time to advanced keratoconus.
• Further research is needed to explore long-term outcomes and optimal management strategies for keratoconus patients.