Posters

Prevalence, presentation and management of keratoconus in paediatric population in south KSA

Poster Details

First Author: S.Eissa SAUDI ARABIA

Co Author(s):                  

Abstract Details

Purpose:

To study keratoconus incidence in pediatric population, with their mode of presentation , and how they were managed .

Setting:

Magrabi Aseer hospital, Saudi Arabia (KSA.)

Methods:

Retrospective study, analyzing the 2 years incidence (May 2011-January 2014) of keratoconus cases between 8-16 years old. Analysis includes , age of onset , presenting symptoms by patient or parents, bilaterality, investigations done , modality of treatment and course of disease . Follow up period of 18 months included OPD scan, Ultrasound pachymetry, refraction, UCVA and BCVA.

Results:

23 eyes (13 patients) with keratoconus were diagnosed in this period. Age of presentation was 14 in 4 patients(30.7%), 15 in 3 patients(23.07%), 11 in 3 patients(23.07%) , and 3 patients at age of 16(23.07%).The presenting symptom was acute marked drop of vision in 5 eyes(21,7%), with white cornea (acute hydrops) , frequent change in spectacle prescription in 12 eyes(52.17%) , severe itching and redness associated with gradual diminution of vision in 6 eyes(26.08%). Penetrating keratoplasty was done in 6 eyes(26.08%), DALK done in 8 eyes(34.78%) , cross linking in 5 eyes(21.73%) and corneal ring segments in 2 eyes(8.69%). Parents of 2 patients with early keratoconus refused treatment, asked for glasses - against medical advice-and skipped outpatient examinations for 11 months and presented with advanced keratoconus necessitating DALK surgery .

Conclusions:

Keratoconus is very aggressive with rapidly progressive course in pediatric population especially in southern region of KSA. Early diagnosis is the cornerstone in management of keratoconus in early age. Advanced keratoconus in one eye necessitates monitoring of fellow eye with possible crosslinking and/or ring segments. FINANCIAL INTEREST: NONE