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Morphological variants in keratoconus: anatomical observation or aetiologically significant?
J A Armitage1, A S Bruce, A J Phillips
1Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia. j.armitage@optometry.unimelb.edu.au
Australian and New Zealand Journal of Ophthalmology
|July 31, 1998
Summary
This study found no significant link between causes and keratoconus cone shapes (nipple vs. oval). Keratoconus aetiology appears common despite identified morphological variants.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Diseases
- Biometry
Background:
- Keratoconus (KC) is a progressive corneal ectasia.
- Two distinct cone morphologies, nipple and oval, have been described in KC.
- Understanding factors influencing these morphologies is crucial for KC management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of aetiological factors on keratoconus cone morphology.
- To compare nipple and oval cone variants in keratoconus patients.
Main Methods:
- A prospective controlled study involved 89 keratoconus subjects.
- Videokeratograph examination was performed on all participants.
- A questionnaire collected data on potential aetiological factors.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant differences in apical power were found between nipple and oval cones.
- Oval cones were located at a greater eccentricity than nipple cones.
- No significant associations were identified between examined aetiological factors and cone morphology.
Conclusions:
- Despite morphological differences, a common aetiology is suggested for keratoconus.
- Further research may elucidate specific triggers for different cone morphologies.