Cornea
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The cornea is the clear dome-shaped surface at the front of the eye which refracts (bends) light rays as they enter the eye. It plays a key role in the focusing of light rays as they pass into the eye and providing a clear image to the retina for vision to occur.
Common disorders of the cornea include keratoconus, corneal dystrophies, infections, pterygium, and dry eye.
Keratoconus
Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder where weakened collagen fibres within the cornea resulting in thinning and protruding into a cone-like shape. Keratoconus is a type of corneal ectasia resulting in blurred vision or visual distortion. It has been linked to certain genetic factors and history of eye rubbing, but is without a definitive cause.
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition, the age of the patient and how quickly it’s progressing.
Dr. Theodore Rabinovitch at North Toronto Eye Care has helped provide keratoconus patients with innovative options and emerging treatments that help correct or even halt the progression of the disease.
Causes of Keratoconus
Although many theories have been proposed, there is no definite known cause of keratoconus. Possible causes include genetics, a collagen deficiency, overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, or excessive eye-rubbing.
Sign and Symptoms of Keratoconus
Keratoconus often begins to develop in the teen years to the early 20s, although it can develop at any age. Changes in the shape and thinning of the cornea typically progresses faster in younger patients. In most patients with keratoconus, both eyes eventually become affected.
Keratoconus can be difficult to detect because it usually has mild visual symptoms initially. Symptoms of keratoconus may include:
- Distorted and blurred vision
- Astigmatism
- Double vision
- Headaches due to eye strain
- Glare
- Light sensitivity
Dr. Rabinovitch will assess the curvature of your cornea to determine whether these symptoms are a result of keratoconus.
