Incidence and Clinical Characteristics of Keratoconus Patients in a University-based Eye Clinic

Aim and background: Keratoconus (KC) is a bilateral, asymmetrical, noninflammatory corneal ectasia that causes blurred vision from the irregular astigmatism by corneal protrusion, thinning, and steepening.This study aims to determine the incidence and clinical characteristics of KC patients in a university-based eye clinic. Materials and methods:This was a retrospective study in which clinical case records from the year of 2011 to 2021 were reviewed.Data collected included the demographic data (age, gender, and ethnic groups), mode of referral, best corrected visual acuity using Snellen chart, slit-lamp examination findings, keratometry reading (steep, flat, and mean) from corneal topographer, monocular manifest refraction, and management and/or treatment given.Results were presented as descriptive analysis.Results: The incidence of KC was found to be 300 cases per 1,00,000 persons per year.Keratoconus was more common in males (80%) than females (20%) and was mostly found in the age-group of 21-30 (60%).Individuals belonging to the Chinese ethnicity were found to have a higher prevalence.More than half of the patients were reported as having mild KC (56%) as per the central mean keratometry reading according to the Amsler-Krumeich classification.Conclusion: This study enables the clinicians to have a better understanding of clinical characteristics of KC patients and thus improve the awareness and consciousness in detecting KC and provide them with appropriate management as soon as possible.Clinical significance: This study contributes to a better understanding of KC by providing valuable epidemiological data and clinical characterization.These findings underscore the importance of early detection and intervention to prevent disease progression.By identifying high-risk populations, clinicians can implement targeted screening programs and initiate appropriate management strategies, such as therapeutic contact lenses or corneal collagen cross-linking, to optimize visual outcomes and enhance the quality of life for KC patients.