Keratoconus is a corneal disease. The cornea is the transparent layer at the front of the eye. In keratoconus, this layer becomes thinner and develops a cone-like bulge. This thinning and protrusion are progressive, leading to a gradual worsening of vision. The condition involves a structural deformity of the cornea.

The term “keratoconus” means a chronically altered cornea. It is observed in approximately 1 in 2,000 people. Keratoconus is considered a disease of youth, typically starting and progressing between the ages of 15 and 25. However, it can sometimes appear before the age of 15. The disease continues to progress until the ages of 35-40, after which it stabilizes on its own.

The exact cause of keratoconus is not fully understood. The most significant factor known to contribute to its development is frequent eye rubbing due to allergic eye conditions. Individuals with keratoconus often have a history of allergies and chronic eye rubbing since childhood. However, the primary issue is the structural weakness of the cornea. While constant eye rubbing may act as a trigger, the fundamental problem lies in the cornea’s structural abnormality.

Although there is a genetic predisposition, keratoconus is not considered a strictly genetic disease. Research indicates that only about 10-20% of cases have a hereditary component.