John Kenyon Eye Institute

Keratoconus

Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease that causes abnormal corneal change, in which the cornea -- the clear, front surface of the eye -- gradually becomes steeper and, eventually, cone-shaped.

As the disease progresses, the quality of the patient’s vision deteriorates. The cone shape is caused by weaker than normal corneal tissue, which causes progressive steepening and thinning of the tissue, which in turn causes vision to erode. Keratoconus, which affects approximately 1 in 2,000 people, can make normal activities such as driving and reading very difficult to perform in extreme cases -- even with glasses or contacts.

Keratoconus normally affects both eyes although it typically progresses at different rates. In most patients, keratoconus begins during teen-age years and slowly worsens before stabilizing when the patient reaches his or her 30s or 40s. No one knows the cause of keratoconus. There is evidence that the disease has genetic origins, which may be made worse by environmental factors.

Laser vision correction is not an effective option for keratoconus patients, but soft contact lenses can help improve vision in the early stages of the disease. In addition, the corneal specialists at the John-Kenyon American Eye Institute will help find the most effective solution to fit your needs. Click here to learn more about Corneal Surgery.