A Hypothesis for the Formation of Vertical Corneal Striae as Observed in the Wearing of Softlens Contact Lenses and in Keratoconus∗ | Synapse
March 21, 2026
A Hypothesis for the Formation of Vertical Corneal Striae as Observed in the Wearing of Softlens Contact Lenses and in Keratoconus∗
Key Points
To explore the mechanism behind vertical corneal striae formation associated with softlens wear and keratoconus.
Postulated formation of striae related to edema in corneal layers.
Examined the role of vertical meridia in corneal structure.
Vertical striae are hypothesized to originate from mild edema in the cornea.
Buckling effect observed primarily in the narrower vertical meridia.
Abstract
ABSTRACT It is postulated that vertical striae are created in the central corneal area by way of mild edema in the posterior layers, which causes a buckling in the shorter, thinner vertical meridia.