WHAT CAUSES KERATOCONUS?
As we explained in the opening paragraph of this
booklet, keratoconus (KC) is characterized by a bulging
of the normally rounded cornea, causing distorted
vision. KC has been known for at least two centuries,
although it was not adequately described and distinguished
from other similar corneal problems until the middle
of the last century.
The causes of this affliction are still unknown
despite our long familiarity with it. There has been
no shortage of speculation or study and numerous
theories have been proposed.
One scientific view is that keratoconus is developmental
(i.e., genetic) in origin. This suggests that it
is the consequence of an abnormality of growth, essentially
a congenital defect. Another is that KC represents
a degenerative condition. Still a third postulation
is that KC is secondary to some disease process.
This idea sprang from the fact that it can occur
in children who are not robust, and it usually affects
both eyes. Another less widely held hypothesis suggests
that the endocrine system may be involved. This idea
gained some credence from the usual appearance of
the disease at puberty.
'The causes of KC are still unknown'
Hereditary influences in KC are suggested by studies
which show that about 7% of patients have other family
members with the disease. Unless you can find evidence
of KC in successive generations of your family, there
is only a I in 10 chance of your having an offspring
with some degree of keratoconus.
|
