Abstract
Keratoconus is a non-inflammatory thinning and anterior protrusion of the cornea that results in steeping and distortion of the cornea, altered refractive powers and altered visual acuity. Therefore, KC is one of the indirect causes of low vision and blindness (as it leads to refractive errors). The prevalence ofKC is relatively high worldwide, with a special increase in prevalence and incidence among theAsian communities. However, this prevalence suffers a considerably high range of variation. It can be recognized that such prevalence is increasing with moving geographically towards the east. Epidemiologically, there are a number of potentially associated risk factors for KC. These factors may include: genetic profile, consanguinity, geographic latitude, exposure to direct light (Especially UV) and personal behaviors (such as eye rubbing). Genetically, there is a number of associated genes and SNPs that were proved to be associated with KC. Various studies have indicated that it is quite possible that there are more than one gene contributing to the development of KC. To date, keratoconus was found to be associated with around 17 different genomic loci. Moreover, research continues for detecting more associated genes and SNPs with KC. Meanwhile, management of KC is now available and accessible. Recently, KC treatment modalities have drastically improved. Such treatment modalities would imply Corrective Glasses and contact lenses, implant of Intraocular lenses, Cross linking procedure, Intra-corneal Ring Segment, Kertatoplastic surgeries and Photrefractive Keratectomy. However, some of the cases either may present late to eye care services or even never sought such services, while there is no early detection and referral mechanisms in place yet.