Posters

Progression of keratoconus in children: 5 year follow-up

Poster Details

First Author: D.Zadok ISRAEL

Co Author(s):    A. Rozenberg   A. Abulafia   L. Or              

Abstract Details

Purpose:

To assess the stability of keratoconus in children over a period of 5 years

Setting:

A retrospective monocentric study was conducted in a tertiary cornea clinic at Assaf Harofeh Medical Center

Methods:

A retrospective case analysis was performed on 80 eyes of 40 patients 18 years or younger, with mild to moderate keratoconus, who underwent CXL in one eye (the more advanced eye at the time of diagnosis). As concomitant allergic keratoconjunctivitis and subsequent eye rubbing might have a negative effect on keratoconus progression, all patients were screened and treated for vernal and allergic conjunctivitis. We did stress the importance of refraining from eye rubbing to all patients and their parents before treatment and at follow-up appointments.

Results:

Follow-up measurements, for the untreated eye taken up to 5 years after treatment were compared with baseline values. Parameters included uncorrected distance visual acuity (UCDVA), best spectacle-corrected distance visual acuity (BCDVA), manifest refraction, pachymetry and corneal topography. Mean age of patients was 15.6±2.1 years. The mean UCDVA and BCDVA remained stable during 5 years of follow up (p>0.21, p>0.08, respectively).The mean Kmax and Kavg showed no significant change during all 5 years of follow-up (p>0.18, p>0.25, respectively).The mean thinnest corneal thickness did not change significantly during all years of follow-up (p>0.78).

Conclusions:

According to our study, there is no indication to cross-link the fellow eye of children who had CXL for progressive keratoconus in the other eye. These patients should be kept under very close follow-up to look for the earliest signs of progression and upon which, CXL should be promptly offered.

Financial Disclosure:

None