Specialized Keratoconus Care
At Arizona's Vision Eye Care Center, we specialize in the diagnosis and management of keratoconus, a progressive eye condition that affects the shape and strength of the cornea. Our experienced team provides comprehensive care using the latest diagnostic technology and advanced treatment options to help preserve your vision and improve your quality of life.
Understanding Keratoconus
Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder where the normally round, dome-shaped cornea thins and begins to bulge into a cone-like shape. This irregular shape prevents light from focusing properly on the retina, causing distorted and blurred vision. The condition typically affects both eyes, though it often develops asymmetrically.
What Causes Keratoconus?
While the exact cause of keratoconus isn't fully understood, research suggests several contributing factors:
- Genetics: Family history increases risk by 15-67 times
- Eye Rubbing: Chronic, vigorous eye rubbing can weaken corneal tissue
- Allergic Conditions: Asthma, eczema, and hay fever are associated risks
- Connective Tissue Disorders: Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
- Ultraviolet Light Exposure: Excessive UV exposure may contribute
- Age: Typically begins in teenage years to early twenties
Signs and Symptoms
Early detection is crucial for effective treatment. Watch for these warning signs:
Early Stage Symptoms:
- Slight blurring of vision
- Increased sensitivity to light and glare
- Eye strain and fatigue
- Mild eye irritation
- Frequent prescription changes
Progressive Symptoms:
- Increasing nearsightedness
- Irregular astigmatism
- Inability to get sharp vision with glasses
- Distortion of vision (straight lines appear wavy)
- Multiple images (monocular diplopia)
- Halos around lights
- Severe light sensitivity
Advanced Diagnostic Testing
Accurate diagnosis is essential for proper treatment planning. We use state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment:
Corneal Topography
Creates a detailed map of the corneal surface, revealing:
- Corneal shape and curvature irregularities
- Progression monitoring over time
- Contact lens fitting guidance
- Surgical planning information
Pentacam Analysis
Provides comprehensive corneal analysis including:
- Anterior and posterior corneal surfaces
- Corneal thickness mapping
- Elevation maps
- Progression indices
OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography)
- Cross-sectional images of corneal layers
- Precise thickness measurements
- Detection of corneal scarring
- Treatment response monitoring
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the stage and progression of your keratoconus. We offer a comprehensive range of options:
Early Stage Management
Specialty Eyeglasses
- Custom astigmatic correction
- High-index lenses for better optics
- Anti-reflective coatings
- Prism correction for comfort
Soft Contact Lenses
- Specialty keratoconus soft lenses
- Hybrid lenses (rigid center, soft skirt)
- Custom-designed options
- Daily disposable options available
Moderate to Advanced Treatment
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses
- Creates a new optical surface
- Custom-fit for irregular corneas
- Various designs: spherical, aspheric, bitoric
- High oxygen permeability materials
Scleral Contact Lenses
- Large diameter lenses that vault over the cornea
- Rest on the sclera for comfort
- Excellent for advanced keratoconus
- Provide superior vision quality
- More comfortable than traditional RGP lenses
Advanced Surgical Interventions
Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL)
The only FDA-approved treatment to slow or halt keratoconus progression:
- Procedure: Riboflavin drops + UV-A light treatment
- Goal: Strengthen corneal collagen bonds
- Duration: About 90 minutes
- Recovery: 3-7 days initial healing
- Effectiveness: 90%+ success in halting progression
Intrastromal Corneal Ring Segments (ICRS)
- Thin plastic segments inserted into the cornea
- Flatten the corneal cone shape
- Improve contact lens fit
- Reversible procedure
- Can delay need for transplant
Corneal Transplant
Reserved for severe cases when other treatments are insufficient:
- Penetrating Keratoplasty (PKP): Full-thickness transplant
- Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK): Partial-thickness transplant
- Success Rate: Over 95% for keratoconus cases
- Recovery: 12-18 months for full healing
Specialty Contact Lens Fitting
Our keratoconus specialists are experts in fitting challenging cases with specialty contact lenses:
Fitting Process
- Comprehensive Evaluation: Detailed topography and measurements
- Lens Selection: Choosing the best design for your eyes
- Initial Fitting: Diagnostic lens trial and evaluation
- Customization: Fine-tuning parameters for optimal fit
- Training: Insertion, removal, and care instruction
- Follow-up: Regular monitoring and adjustments
Specialty Lens Options
- Rose K Lenses: Designed specifically for keratoconus
- UltraHealth Lenses: Highly breathable material
- NovaKone Lenses: Custom keratoconus design
- EyePrint Pro: Prosthetic replacement lenses
- PROSE Lenses: Prosthetic replacement of ocular surface ecosystem
Managing Keratoconus Progression
Regular monitoring is essential to track progression and adjust treatment:
Follow-up Schedule
- Stable Cases: Every 6-12 months
- Progressive Cases: Every 3-6 months
- Post-Treatment: As recommended by doctor
- Contact Lens Wearers: Every 6 months minimum
Progression Indicators
- Steepening of corneal curvature
- Corneal thinning
- Changes in topography patterns
- Worsening vision with current correction
- Increased contact lens intolerance
Living with Keratoconus
Lifestyle Modifications
- Avoid Eye Rubbing: This is crucial to prevent progression
- Manage Allergies: Reduce itching and rubbing urges
- UV Protection: Wear quality sunglasses outdoors
- Regular Eye Exams: Monitor progression and treatment effectiveness
- Proper Contact Lens Care: Follow hygiene guidelines strictly
When to Seek Immediate Care
- Sudden vision changes
- Severe eye pain
- Contact lens intolerance
- Signs of corneal infection
- Persistent redness or discharge
Insurance and Treatment Costs
Coverage varies by insurance plan and treatment type:
- Diagnostic testing is typically covered
- Specialty contact lenses may have limited coverage
- Cross-linking coverage varies by insurer
- Medical necessity documentation often required
We'll work with your insurance to maximize benefits and discuss payment options for specialized treatments.
Why Choose Arizona's Vision Eye Care Center?
- Specialized Expertise: Extensive experience in keratoconus management
- Advanced Technology: Latest diagnostic and treatment equipment
- Comprehensive Care: All treatment options under one roof
- Personalized Approach: Treatment plans tailored to your specific needs
- Long-term Support: Ongoing monitoring and care adjustments
Schedule Your Keratoconus Consultation
Early detection and proper management of keratoconus can help preserve your vision and quality of life. Our keratoconus specialists are here to provide you with the most advanced care available. Contact Arizona's Vision Eye Care Center today to schedule your comprehensive evaluation.