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Meng F, Ren S. Identification of hub genes and molecular pathways in keratoconus by integrating bioinformatics and literature mining at the RNA level. Int Ophthalmol 2024; 44:244. [PMID: 38904678 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-024-03071-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Keratoconus (KC) is a condition characterized by progressive corneal steepening and thinning. However, its pathophysiological mechanism remains vague. We mainly performed literature mining to extract bioinformatic and related data on KC at the RNA level. The objective of this study was to explore the potential pathological mechanisms of KC by identifying hub genes and key molecular pathways at the RNA level. METHODS We performed an exhaustive search of the PubMed database and identified studies that pertained to gene transcripts derived from diverse corneal layers in patients with KC. The identified differentially expressed genes were intersected, and overlapping genes were extracted for further analyses. Significantly enriched genes were screened using "Gene Ontology" (GO) and "Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes" (KEGG) analysis with the "Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery" (DAVID) database. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed for the significantly enriched genes using the STRING database. The PPI network was visualized using the Cytoscape software, and hub genes were screened via betweenness centrality values. Pathways that play a critical role in the pathophysiology of KC were discovered using the GO and KEGG analyses of the hub genes. RESULTS 68 overlapping genes were obtained. Fifty genes were significantly enriched in 67 biological processes, and 16 genes were identified in 7 KEGG pathways. Moreover, 14 nodes and 32 edges were identified via the PPI network constructed using the STRING database. Multiple analyses identified 4 hub genes, 12 enriched biological processes, and 6 KEGG pathways. GO enrichment analysis showed that the hub genes are mainly involved in the positive regulation of apoptotic process, and KEGG analysis showed that the hub genes are primarily associated with the interleukin-17 (IL-17) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) pathways. Overall, the matrix metalloproteinase 9, IL-6, estrogen receptor 1, and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 were the potential important genes associated with KC. CONCLUSION Four genes, matrix metalloproteinase 9, IL-6, estrogen receptor 1, and prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase 2, as well as IL-17 and TNF pathways, are critical in the development of KC. Inflammation and apoptosis may contribute to the pathogenesis of KC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feiying Meng
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital/People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
- Eye Institute, Henan Academy of Innovations in Medical Science, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shengwei Ren
- Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital/People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, China.
- Eye Institute, Henan Academy of Innovations in Medical Science, Zhengzhou, China.
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Kaur P, Moon L, Srikumaran D, Salzberg SL, Lu J, Simner PJ, Soiberman US. No Evidence of Chronic Infection in a Metagenomic Sequencing Study of the Keratoconus Corneal Epithelium. J Clin Med 2024; 13:3399. [PMID: 38929928 PMCID: PMC11205138 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13123399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives: This study aims to assess the presence of pathogenic microorganisms in the corneal epithelial layer of keratoconus patients. Methods: DNA was extracted from corneal epithelial samples procured from ten individual keratoconus eyes and three healthy controls. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) was performed to detect ocular microbiota using an agnostic approach. Results: Metagenomic sequencing revealed a low microbial read count in corneal epithelial samples derived from both keratoconus eyes (average: 530) and controls (average: 622) without a statistically significant difference (p = 0.29). Proteobacteria were the predominant phylum in both keratoconus and control samples (relative abundance: 72% versus 79%, respectively). Conclusions: The overall low microbial read count and the lack of difference in the relative abundance of different microbial species between keratoconus and control samples do not support the hypothesis that a chronic corneal infection is implicated in the pathogenesis of keratoconus. These findings do not rule out the possibility that an acute infection may be involved in the disease process as an initiating event.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pritpal Kaur
- The Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Loren Moon
- The Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Divya Srikumaran
- The Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Steven L. Salzberg
- Center for Computational Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
- Department of Computer Science, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Jennifer Lu
- Center for Computational Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Patricia J. Simner
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Uri S. Soiberman
- The Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
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Liu J, Gao J, Xing S, Yan Y, Yan X, Jing Y, Li X. Bioinformatics analysis of signature genes related to cell death in keratoconus. Sci Rep 2024; 14:12749. [PMID: 38830963 PMCID: PMC11148072 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-63109-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Keratoconus is corneal disease in which the progression of conical dilation of cornea leads to reduced visual acuity and even corneal perforation. However, the etiology mechanism of keratoconus is still unclear. This study aims to identify the signature genes related to cell death in keratoconus and examine the function of these genes. A dataset of keratoconus from the GEO database was analysed to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs). A total of 3558 DEGs were screened from GSE151631. The results of Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis showed that they mainly involved in response to hypoxia, cell-cell adhesion, and IL-17 signaling pathway. Then, the cell death-related genes datasets were intersected with the above 3558 DEGs to obtain 70 ferroptosis-related DEGs (FDEGs), 32 autophagy-related DEGs (ADEGs), six pyroptosis-related DEGs (PDEGs), four disulfidptosis-related DEGs (DDEGs), and one cuproptosis-related DEGs (CDEGs). After using Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), Random Forest analysis, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, one ferroptosis-related gene (TNFAIP3) and five autophagy-related genes (CDKN1A, HSPA5, MAPK8IP1, PPP1R15A, and VEGFA) were screened out. The expressions of the above six genes were significantly decreased in keratoconus and the area under the curve (AUC) values of these genes was 0.944, 0.893, 0.797, 0.726, 0.882 and 0.779 respectively. GSEA analysis showed that the above six genes mainly play an important role in allograft rejection, asthma, and circadian rhythm etc. In conclusion, the results of this study suggested that focusing on these genes and autoimmune diseases will be a beneficial perspective for the keratoconus etiology research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinghua Liu
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
- Nankai University Affiliated Eye Hospital, Tianjin, 300020, China
| | - Juan Gao
- Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Tianjin Eye Institute, Tianjin, 300020, China
| | - Shulei Xing
- Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300020, China
| | - Yarong Yan
- Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300020, China
| | - Xinlin Yan
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
- Nankai University Affiliated Eye Hospital, Tianjin, 300020, China
| | - Yapeng Jing
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
- Nankai University Affiliated Eye Hospital, Tianjin, 300020, China
| | - Xuan Li
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
- Nankai University Affiliated Eye Hospital, Tianjin, 300020, China.
- Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Tianjin Eye Institute, Tianjin, 300020, China.
- Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300020, China.
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Nugent L, Son HS, Wang J, Varadaraj V, Smith K, Soiberman US, Srikumaran D. Racial Variation in Visual Impairment of Patients With Keratoconus at Presentation. Cornea 2024; 43:31-37. [PMID: 37294677 PMCID: PMC10709529 DOI: 10.1097/ico.0000000000003302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate racial disparities in the severity of keratoconus (KCN) at presentation, their intersection with socioeconomic variables, and other factors associated with visual impairment. METHODS This retrospective cohort study examined medical records of 1989 patients (3978 treatment-naive eyes) with a diagnosis of KCN seen at Wilmer Eye Institute between 2013 and 2020. A multivariable regression model adjusting for age, sex, race, insurance type, KCN family history, atopy, smoking status, and vision correction method examined factors associated with visual impairment, defined as a best available visual acuity of worse than 20/40 in the better eye. RESULTS Demographically, Asian patients were the youngest (33.4 ± 14.0 years) ( P < 0.001), and Black patients had the highest median area deprivation index (ADI) of 37.0 [interquartile range (IQR): 21.0-60.5] ( P < 0.001). Multivariable analysis showed a higher risk of visual impairment for Black (OR 2.25, 95% CI, 1.71-2.95) versus White patients. Medicaid (OR 2.59, 95% CI, 1.75-3.83) and Medicare (OR 2.48, 95% CI, 1.51-4.07) were also associated with a higher odds of visual impairment compared with private insurance, and active smokers were more likely to have visual impairment than those with no prior smoking history (OR 2.17, 95% CI, 1.42-3.30). Eyes of Black patients had the highest maximum keratometry (Kmax) (56.0 ± 11.0D) ( P = 0.003) and the lowest thinnest pachymetry (463.2 ± 62.5 µm) ( P = 0.006) compared with eyes of other races. CONCLUSIONS Black race, government-funded insurance, and active smoking were significantly associated with increased odds of visual impairment in adjusted analyses. Black race was also associated with higher Kmax and lower thinnest pachymetry, suggesting that Black patients have more severe disease at presentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liam Nugent
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Hyeck-Soo Son
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany
| | - Jiangxia Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Varshini Varadaraj
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kerry Smith
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Uri S. Soiberman
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Divya Srikumaran
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Angelo L, Gokul A, McGhee CNJ, Ziaei M. Keratoconus Management in the Community: A Survey of Optometrists. Eye Contact Lens 2024; 50:10-15. [PMID: 37967544 DOI: 10.1097/icl.0000000000001057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Defining the patterns of practice and referral criteria of optometrists within New Zealand to investigate the diagnosis and management of keratoconus. METHODS Optometrists recruited through the New Zealand Association of Optometrists, Cornea and Contact Lens Society of New Zealand, and private practices were invited to complete an anonymous survey. RESULTS Responses were received from 168 optometrists (representing 20.0% of the optometrist population). Half (48%) of optometrists had ≥15 years of experience, and 22% prescribed soft contact lenses daily, whereas only 6.4% prescribed rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses daily. The main barriers to prescribing RGPs were experience with fitting, low market demand, and patient discomfort. When referring to an ophthalmologist, 41% reported referring on progression of corneal parameters, 27% on initial diagnosis, 21% at no set time, and 10% with a reduction in visual acuity. Most optometrists (64%) would refer for possible surgery when visual acuity dropped between 6/9 and 6/12. Optometrists with greater experience were more likely to prescribe RGP lenses and co-manage patients with ophthalmologists. Ownership of a corneal imaging unit suggested an increased likelihood of prescribing RGP lenses but did not alter referral patterns. CONCLUSION This survey provides an overview of current practice and highlights the importance of optometrists in the diagnosis and management of keratoconus. There was a significant discrepancy in keratoconus management, regarding optical correction modality and referral criteria for ophthalmology review. Further interdisciplinary work is required between optometry and ophthalmology to standardize referral guidelines and enhance visual outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lize Angelo
- Ophthalmology Department, The University of Auckland, Grafton, Auckland, New Zealand
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Yaffe JA, Matlov Kormas R, Malyugin BE, Boyko M, Tuuminen R, Knyazer B. Ethnicity, Progressive Keratoconus, and Outcomes after Corneal Cross-Linking in Southern Israel. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2294. [PMID: 38137894 PMCID: PMC10744447 DOI: 10.3390/life13122294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess clinical outcomes of corneal cross-linking (CXL) intervention in a population diagnosed with progressive keratoconus. METHODS This single-center retrospective cohort study included consecutive patients who underwent standard CXL or accelerated CXL for progressive keratoconus at a major teaching hospital in southern Israel between January 2015 and December 2019. Patients' medical files were reviewed, and pre-operative and post-operative data regarding demographics and clinical and tomographic characteristics were extracted and analyzed. RESULTS This study included 166 patients (representing 198 eyes), out of which 98 patients (123 eyes) were ethnically Bedouin, and 68 patients (75 eyes) were ethnically Jewish. Overall, 126 patients (144 eyes) had a follow-up of at least 12 months (16.84 ± 5.76). The mean patient age was 20.62 ± 7.1 years old. There were significant baseline differences between the two ethnic groups in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA; p < 0.001), uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA; p < 0.001), mean keratometry (p = 0.028), and corneal thickness (p < 0.001). Significant changes in BCVA, UCVA, and pachymetry parameters within each group were found after 12 months. Negative binomial regression analysis showed a maximal keratometry below 55D (RR = 1.247, p < 0.001), and a standard CXL procedure (RR = 1.147, p = 0.041) are significantly related to the stability of KC after 12 months. However, the effect size of the origin of patients is negligible (RR = 1.047, p = 0.47). CONCLUSIONS In this study, the Bedouin population suffered from more progressive keratoconus when compared to the Jewish population. CXL was significantly effective in improving BCVA and UCVA in both groups after 12 months of follow-up. The effect size of the origin of patients on the stability of KC was found to be negligible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob A. Yaffe
- Department of Ophthalmology, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer Sheva 8457108, Israel; (R.M.K.); (B.K.)
- Faculty of Health Science, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8443944, Israel
| | - Ran Matlov Kormas
- Department of Ophthalmology, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer Sheva 8457108, Israel; (R.M.K.); (B.K.)
- Faculty of Health Science, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8443944, Israel
| | - Boris E. Malyugin
- S. Fyodorov Eye Microsurgery Federal Institution, Moscow 127486, Russia
- Department of Ophthalmology, A. Yevdokimov Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry, Moscow 127473, Russia
| | - Matthew Boyko
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8457108, Israel
| | - Raimo Tuuminen
- Helsinki Retina Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Eye Centre, Kymenlaakso Central Hospital, 48210 Kotka, Finland
| | - Boris Knyazer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer Sheva 8457108, Israel; (R.M.K.); (B.K.)
- Faculty of Health Science, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8443944, Israel
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Escandon P, Nicholas SE, Vasini B, Cunningham RL, Murphy DA, Riaz KM, Karamichos D. Selective Modulation of the Keratoconic Stromal Microenvironment by FSH and LH. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2023; 193:1762-1775. [PMID: 36822267 PMCID: PMC10726429 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2023.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
Keratoconus (KC) affects the corneal structure, with thinning and bulging outward into a conelike shape. Irregular astigmatism and decreased visual acuity appear during puberty and progress into the mid-30s, with unpredictable disease severity. The cause of KC is recognized as multifactorial, but remains poorly understood. Hormone imbalances are a significant modulator of the onset of KC. This study sought to investigate the role of gonadotropins, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) in KC, using a three-dimensional, self-assembled matrix in vitro model. Healthy corneal fibroblasts and human KC cells in the corneal stroma were isolated, cultured, and stimulated with stable vitamin C to promote extracellular matrix assembly. Cultures were further stimulated with 2.5 or 10 mIU/mL FSH and 5 or 35 mIU/mL LH. Samples were evaluated for cell proliferation and morphology via BrdU assay and imaging; protein expression was assessed via Western blot analysis. Proliferation was significantly greater in human KC cells compared to healthy corneal fibroblasts with LH stimulation, but no changes were found with FSH stimulation. Additionally, in sex hormone receptors, fibrotic markers, proteoglycans, and members of the gonadotropin signaling pathway were significantly changed, largely driven by exogenous LH. The impact of exogenous FSH/LH in the KC stromal microenvironment was demonstrated. These results highlight the need to further examine the role of FSH/LH in KC and in human corneal homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Escandon
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas
| | - Sarah E Nicholas
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas
| | - Brenda Vasini
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas
| | - Rebecca L Cunningham
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas
| | - David A Murphy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dean McGee Eye Institute, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Kamran M Riaz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dean McGee Eye Institute, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Dimitrios Karamichos
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas; Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas.
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Angelo L, Gokul A, McGhee C, Ziaei M. Comparing Repeatability and Agreement between Commonly Used Corneal Imaging Devices in Keratoconus. Optom Vis Sci 2023; 100:761-769. [PMID: 37890110 DOI: 10.1097/opx.0000000000002079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE Keratometry and pachymetry are important for diagnosis and monitoring of keratoconus. Many corneal imaging units exist, but comparison to determine repeatability and agreement is paramount for adequate keratoconus management in primary and secondary care. PURPOSE This study aimed to evaluate the repeatability and agreement of a Placido disc-based videokeratoscope (Melbourne, Victoria, Australia) used in primary care with spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (Optopol Technology, Zawiercie, Poland) and Scheimpflug corneal tomography (Oculus, Wetzlar, Germany) in secondary care. METHODS This was a prospective single-center study where one eye was randomized to have central corneal thickness;thinnest corneal thickness (TCT); and maximum, mean, steep, and flat keratometry (Kmax, Kmean, Ksteep, and Kflat, respectively), measured with all three devices. Three measurements were completed per device to assess intraobserver repeatability. RESULTS A total of 110 eyes from 110 patients with keratoconus were analyzed. Repeatability was best with the Pentacam for central corneal thickness, Kmax, Kmean, Ksteep, and Kflat parameters (precision, 9.21, 0.8, 0.38, 0.52, and 0.58). The Medmont had better repeatability than the Revo with Kmax, Kmean, Ksteep, and Kflat (precision, 1.41,1.35,1.43, and 1.59). Revo had the best repeatability with TCT (precision, 3.81). The intraclass correlation coefficient was >0.94 for all parameters in all devices. Agreement was generally poor between devices. However, there was good agreement between Pentacam and Medmont Kflat measurements ( P > .05). CONCLUSIONS Repeatability of keratometry parameters with the Pentacam and Medmont was greater than the Revo, suggesting a lower threshold for detecting change in anterior corneal parameters. The Revo had the greatest repeatability for TCT, suggesting a lower threshold for detecting thinning in disease progression and corneal-crosslinking safety. There was poor agreement between devices, and it is not recommended for them to be used interchangably.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lize Angelo
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Akilesh Gokul
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Sahebjada S, Chan E, Sutton G, Pang CPC, Kerdraon Y, Natarajan S, Meteoukki W, Ang A, Daniell M, Baird PN. Keratoconus International Consortium (KIC)- advancing keratoconus research. BMC Ophthalmol 2023; 23:337. [PMID: 37501133 PMCID: PMC10375634 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-023-03087-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
CLINICAL RELEVANCE The Keratoconus International Consortium (KIC) will allow better understanding of keratoconus. BACKGROUND Keratoconus is a disorder characterised by corneal elevation and thinning, leading to reduced vision. The current gaps in understanding of this disease will be discussed and the need for a multi-pronged and multi-centre engagement to enhance our understanding of keratoconus will be highlighted. DESIGN KIC has been established to address the gaps in our understanding of keratoconus with the aim of collecting baseline as well as longitudinal data on several fields. PARTICIPANTS Keratoconus and control (no corneal condition) subjects from different sites globally will be recruited in the study. METHODS KIC collects data using an online, secure database, which enables standardised data collection at member sites. Data fields collected include medical history, clinical features, quality of life and economic burden questionnaires and possible genetic sample collection from patients of different ethnicities across different geographical locations. RESULTS There are currently 40 Australian and international clinics or hospital departments who have joined the KIC. Baseline data has so far been collected on 1130 keratoconus patients and indicates a median age of 29.70 years with 61% being male. A total of 15.3% report a positive family history of keratoconus and 57.7% self-report a history of frequent eye rubbing. CONCLUSION The strength of this consortium is its international, collaborative design and use of a common data collection tool. Inclusion and analyses of cross-sectional and longitudinal data will help answer many questions that remain in keratoconus, including factors affecting progression and treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srujana Sahebjada
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Level 7, 32 Gisborne St, East Melbourne, Victoria, 3002, Australia.
- Department of Surgery, Ophthalmology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Elsie Chan
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Level 7, 32 Gisborne St, East Melbourne, Victoria, 3002, Australia
- Department of Surgery, Ophthalmology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Gerard Sutton
- Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- NSW Tissue Banks, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Yves Kerdraon
- Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Envision Eye Centre, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Wafaa Meteoukki
- Molecular and Cellular Genetics Laboratory, Oran University of Science and Technology - Mohamed Boudiaf (USTOMB), Oran, Algeria
| | | | - Mark Daniell
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Level 7, 32 Gisborne St, East Melbourne, Victoria, 3002, Australia
- Department of Surgery, Ophthalmology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Paul N Baird
- Department of Surgery, Ophthalmology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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Akoto T, Cai J, Nicholas S, McCord H, Estes AJ, Xu H, Karamichos D, Liu Y. Unravelling the Impact of Cyclic Mechanical Stretch in Keratoconus-A Transcriptomic Profiling Study. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:7437. [PMID: 37108600 PMCID: PMC10139219 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Biomechanical and molecular stresses may contribute to the pathogenesis of keratoconus (KC). We aimed to profile the transcriptomic changes in healthy primary human corneal (HCF) and KC-derived cells (HKC) combined with TGFβ1 treatment and cyclic mechanical stretch (CMS), mimicking the pathophysiological condition in KC. HCFs (n = 4) and HKCs (n = 4) were cultured in flexible-bottom collagen-coated 6-well plates treated with 0, 5, and 10 ng/mL of TGFβ1 with or without 15% CMS (1 cycle/s, 24 h) using a computer-controlled Flexcell FX-6000T Tension system. We used stranded total RNA-Seq to profile expression changes in 48 HCF/HKC samples (100 bp PE, 70-90 million reads per sample), followed by bioinformatics analysis using an established pipeline with Partek Flow software. A multi-factor ANOVA model, including KC, TGFβ1 treatment, and CMS, was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs, |fold change| ≥ 1.5, FDR ≤ 0.1, CPM ≥ 10 in ≥1 sample) in HKCs (n = 24) vs. HCFs (n = 24) and those responsive to TGFβ1 and/or CMS. PANTHER classification system and the DAVID bioinformatics resources were used to identify significantly enriched pathways (FDR ≤ 0.05). Using multi-factorial ANOVA analyses, 479 DEGs were identified in HKCs vs. HCFs including TGFβ1 treatment and CMS as cofactors. Among these DEGs, 199 KC-altered genes were responsive to TGFβ1, thirteen were responsive to CMS, and six were responsive to TGFβ1 and CMS. Pathway analyses using PANTHER and DAVID indicated the enrichment of genes involved in numerous KC-relevant functions, including but not limited to degradation of extracellular matrix, inflammatory response, apoptotic processes, WNT signaling, collagen fibril organization, and cytoskeletal structure organization. TGFβ1-responsive KC DEGs were also enriched in these. CMS-responsive KC-altered genes such as OBSCN, CLU, HDAC5, AK4, ITGA10, and F2RL1 were identified. Some KC-altered genes, such as CLU and F2RL1, were identified to be responsive to both TGFβ1 and CMS. For the first time, our multi-factorial RNA-Seq study has identified many KC-relevant genes and pathways in HKCs with TGFβ1 treatment under CMS, suggesting a potential role of TGFβ1 and biomechanical stretch in KC development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Akoto
- Department of Cellular Biology & Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Jingwen Cai
- Department of Cellular Biology & Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Sarah Nicholas
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA
| | - Hayden McCord
- Department of Cellular Biology & Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Amy J. Estes
- Department of Ophthalmology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- James & Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Hongyan Xu
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Dimitrios Karamichos
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA
| | - Yutao Liu
- Department of Cellular Biology & Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- James & Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- Center for Biotechnology and Genomic Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
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Toprak I. To what extent is pregnancy-induced keratoconus progression reversible? A case-report and literature review. Eur J Ophthalmol 2023; 33:NP37-NP41. [PMID: 34533408 DOI: 10.1177/11206721211045187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This report aims to present a case with pregnancy-induced keratoconus (KC) progression and recovery in topographical parameters after a period from delivery/breastfeeding. METHODS A 29-year-old woman with bilateral KC experienced progression in maximum keratometry (Kmax; from 47.6 to 48.2 D in the OD and from 53.7 to 55.2 D in the OS) and several Pentacam indices in both eyes. RESULTS The Belin ABCD progression score remained unchanged in the right eye (A0B2C0D0) but increased in the left eye (from A2B3C1D1 to A2B4C1D1) (Pentacam HR, Oculus Optikgeräte GmbH, Wetzlar, Germany) during pregnancy/breastfeeding. About 6-months after cessation of breastfeeding, Kmax improved to baseline values in both eyes. Although there were improvements in "A" and "B" scores, final ABCD stage remained higher than the baseline value in the left eye. CONCLUSIONS The current report shows asymmetrically bilateral progression of KC during pregnancy and early post-delivery period, which was followed by a partial recovery in Pentacam parameters after discontinuation of breastfeeding. These findings seem to confirm the postulated link between pregnancy and KC progression. On the other hand, in patients with KC, pregnancy-induced corneal alterations might recover after delivery/breastfeeding and clinician should wait for stabilization of corneal parameters to determine treatment strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Toprak
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Pamukkale University, Kinikli, Denizli, Turkey
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12
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McMonnies CW. Mechanisms of corneal trauma in response to rubbing and other intraocular pressure elevating activities in keratoconus. EXPERT REVIEW OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/17469899.2022.2153119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Charles W McMonnies
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of New South Wales
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Akoto T, Li JJ, Estes AJ, Karamichos D, Liu Y. The Underlying Relationship between Keratoconus and Down Syndrome. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810796. [PMID: 36142709 PMCID: PMC9503764 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Keratoconus (KC) is one of the most significant corneal disorders worldwide, characterized by the progressive thinning and cone-shaped protrusion of the cornea, which can lead to severe visual impairment. The prevalence of KC varies greatly by ethnic groups and geographic regions and has been observed to be higher in recent years. Although studies reveal a possible link between KC and genetics, hormonal disturbances, environmental factors, and specific comorbidities such as Down Syndrome (DS), the exact cause of KC remains unknown. The incidence of KC ranges from 0% to 71% in DS patients, implying that as the worldwide population of DS patients grows, the number of KC patients may continue to rise significantly. As a result, this review aims to shed more light on the underlying relationship between KC and DS by examining the genetics relating to the cornea, central corneal thickness (CCT), and mechanical forces on the cornea, such as vigorous eye rubbing. Furthermore, this review discusses KC diagnostic and treatment strategies that may help detect KC in DS patients, as well as the available DS mouse models that could be used in modeling KC in DS patients. In summary, this review will provide improved clinical knowledge of KC in DS patients and promote additional KC-related research in these patients to enhance their eyesight and provide suitable treatment targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Akoto
- Department of Cellular Biology & Anatomy, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Jiemin J. Li
- Department of Cellular Biology & Anatomy, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Amy J. Estes
- Department of Ophthalmology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- James & Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Dimitrios Karamichos
- North Texas Eye Research Institute, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA
| | - Yutao Liu
- Department of Cellular Biology & Anatomy, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- James & Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- Center for Biotechnology and Genomic Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-706-721-2015
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14
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Angelo L, Gokul Boptom A, McGhee C, Ziaei M. Corneal Crosslinking: Present and Future. Asia Pac J Ophthalmol (Phila) 2022; 11:441-452. [PMID: 36094381 DOI: 10.1097/apo.0000000000000557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Keratoconus is a progressive corneal thinning disorder that can lead to vision loss. In the last 2 decades, corneal crosslinking (CXL) has emerged as an effective method to halt the progression of keratoconus and reduce the number of patients requiring keratoplasty. The procedure has been adopted globally and has evolved to become a part of combination treatments to regularize the cornea and improve visual outcomes. CXL has even been extrapolated in managing other ocular pathologies such as progressive myopia, infectious keratitis, and bullous keratopathy. This review aims to summarize the current role of CXL in keratoconus and its alternative uses, and provide insights into future developments in this fast-developing field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lize Angelo
- Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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15
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Toprak I, Kilic D. Current clinical approach to pediatric keratoconus patients. EXPERT REVIEW OF OPHTHALMOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/17469899.2022.2085557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Toprak
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Pamukkale University, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Deniz Kilic
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kayseri City Training and Research Hospital, Health Science University, Kayseri, Turkey
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16
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Mathan JJ, Simkin SK, Gokul A, McGhee CNJ. Down syndrome and the eye: ocular characteristics and ocular assessment. Surv Ophthalmol 2022; 67:1631-1646. [DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2022.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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17
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Zhao X, Yuan Y, Sun T, Zhang Y, Chen Y. Associations Between Keratoconus and the Level of Sex Hormones: A Cross-Sectional Study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:828233. [PMID: 35280869 PMCID: PMC8908379 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.828233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To analyze the level of sex hormone in relation to keratoconus (KC). Methods Sixty-two eyes of 62 patients (12 females, 50 males) classified as KC and 120 eyes of 120 patients (21 females, 99 males) with mild to moderate myopia and astigmatism were analyzed. Plasma samples were collected and analyzed using a chemiluminescence immunoassay to determine the concentrations of estriol (E3), estradiol (E2), progesterone (P), and testosterone (T). Corneal morphological parameters, such as the central corneal thickness (CCT), thinnest corneal thickness (TCT), and maximum simulated keratometry (Kmax), were measured using Pentacam and Sirius. Results The mean age was 23.73 ± 5.16 years for patients with KC and 23.68 ± 6.10 years for patients treated with laser vision correction (LVC). Among the patients with KC, 12 were female (19.35%) and 50 were male (80.65%). The majority of patients with KC were between 20 and 30 years old. In female patients, the concentration of T in the KC group was significantly lower than that in the LVC group (0.86 ± 0.33 vs. 1.18 ± 0.58 nmol/L; P = 0.044). There were positive correlations between T, CCT (r = 0.395, P = 0.023) and TCT (r = 0.378, P = 0.030) in female patients. In male patients, E2 was higher in the KC group than the LVC group (143.75 ± 34.82 vs. 124.80 ± 43.56 pmol/L; P = 0.013), while T was significantly lower (11.59 ± 2.85 vs. 13.58 ± 4.77 nmol/L; P = 0.026). A positive correlation was found between E2 and Kmax (r = 0.222, P = 0.007) in male patients. Conclusions Conclusively, our results showed that T level was reduced in both female and male KC plasma, while E2 was increased in male KC plasma. Different levels of sex hormones are correlated with KC, which, may provide the basis of a new technique for screening and diagnosing KC with or without the assistance of current imaging techniques. Moreover, the correlations between sex hormone alterations and KC provide compelling insight into KC etiopathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaorui Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Restoration of Damaged Ocular Nerve, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yifei Yuan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Restoration of Damaged Ocular Nerve, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tong Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Restoration of Damaged Ocular Nerve, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Restoration of Damaged Ocular Nerve, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yueguo Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Restoration of Damaged Ocular Nerve, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
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18
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Toprak I, Gunes CE. Increased epithelial backscatter: A novel finding in subclinical and clinical keratoconus. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2021; 49:1000-1008. [PMID: 34472198 DOI: 10.1111/ceo.13996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To assess alterations in backscatter from the corneal epithelium, anterior stroma and lens surface in eyes with subclinical, mild and moderate keratoconus (KC). METHODS In this single-centre, cross-sectional study involving 24 eyes with subclinical KC, 107 eyes with manifest KC (mild = 40 and moderate = 67 eyes) and 90 controls, line densitometry was performed with Pentacam (Oculus Optikgeräte GmbH, Wetzlar, Germany) to obtain simultaneous backscatter values for the corneal epithelium, anterior stroma and anterior lens surface. Backscatter values and Pentacam parameters were used in subsequent statistical analyses. RESULTS Eyes with subclinical, mild and moderate KC had similar epithelial and stromal backscatter (P > 0.05) that was significantly increased compared with the controls (P < 0.05). Although anterior lens surface backscatter did not differ between the control and KC groups (P > 0.05), it was significantly higher in the mild and moderate KC groups than in the subclinical KC group (P < 0.05). In the KC group (n = 131) epithelial backscatter was strongly correlated with stromal backscatter (r = 0.911, P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Increased epithelial backscatter and a strong correlation with anterior stromal backscatter in the KC groups were consistent with the epithelium-stroma interaction involved in KC pathogenesis. Single-point backscatter analysis can be used with point clouds to construct epithelial and stromal backscatter maps in Pentacam to aid the detection of KC as a novel feature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Toprak
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Pamukkale University, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Celal Emre Gunes
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Pamukkale University, Denizli, Turkey
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19
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Elubous KA, Al Bdour M, Alshammari T, Jeris I, AlRyalat SA, Roto A, Abu Ameerha M. Environmental Risk Factors Associated With the Need for Penetrating Keratoplasty in Patients With Keratoconus. Cureus 2021; 13:e16506. [PMID: 34430120 PMCID: PMC8375353 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.16506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To identify environmental risk factors associated with the need for penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) (full-thickness corneal transplantation) in patients with keratoconus in a Middle Eastern country. Methods This is a retrospective case-control study. This study included patients with keratoconus who underwent PKPor were waitlisted for PKP. Controls were patients diagnosed with keratoconus who did not reach a stage that necessitates PKP. Groups were matched by age and gender. Chi-square test was used to figure out the association between different risk factors including eye rubbing, vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC), smoking, paternal consanguinity, eye dryness, family history, asthma, eczema, and diabetes with the need for PKP. Results A total of 111 patients were included in this study, there were 48 (43.26%) men and 63 (56.75%) women. The case group included 42 subjects and the control group included 69 subjects. We found statistically significant differences between the two groups in relation to eye rubbing (p=0.0005), VKC (p=0.005), paternal consanguinity (p=0.02), and smoking rate (p=0.04), all being significant in the group in need of PKP. On the other hand, we did not find out a statistically significant difference between the two groups in relation to family history (p=0.31), dryness (p=0.58), asthma (p=0.15), eczema (p=0.28), or diabetes (p=0.29). Conclusion This study has identified several risk factors associated with the need for PKP in patients with keratoconus, part of which are modifiable. These findings can benefit clinicians in community counseling and give recommendations that can help in preventing or - at least - delaying the need for PKP surgery in keratoconus, such as smoking cessation, aggressive treatment of VKC disease, eye rubbing avoidance, as well as raising awareness regarding the potential risks of paternal consanguinity in this disease entity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaled A Elubous
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Jordan, Amman, JOR
| | - Muawyah Al Bdour
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Jordan, Amman, JOR
| | - Taher Alshammari
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Jordan, Amman, JOR
| | - Issa Jeris
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Jordan, Amman, JOR
| | | | - Allaa Roto
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Jordan, Amman, JOR
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Jeng BH, Belin MW. New Consideration for Old Conditions. Asia Pac J Ophthalmol (Phila) 2020; 9:479-480. [PMID: 33323703 DOI: 10.1097/apo.0000000000000349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Bennie H Jeng
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Michael W Belin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, University of Arizona, Tuscon, AZ
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