Keratoconus Among South Egyptian Children With High Cylinder

To investigate the refractive and corneal topographic characteristics of children with high-grade astigmatism in South Egypt

AlAzhar and Sohag universities Ophthalmology Cornea Clinics 

A cross-sectional study was conducted on pediatric patients (aged 6–18) who attended AlAzhar and Sohag universities Ophthalmology Cornea Clinics between January 2019 and January 2022. Participants were categorized into three groups based on their astigmatic error and corneal topography: Group I (high cylinder with normal topography), Group II (high cylinder with abnormal topography indicating KC), and Group III (control group with normal topography and no cylinder error). Data collection included demographic information, medical history, ophthalmic examinations, and corneal imaging using Pentacam HR

The study analyzed 4,350 eyes, with 4,000 eyes exhibiting astigmatism of ≥2D. KC was diagnosed in 8.64% of the pediatric population. Group II, which included subjects with KC, showed significantly poorer uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) compared to Groups I and III. Corneal curvature, thickness, and pachymetry measurements in Group II were markedly abnormal, with the steepest K readings and thinnest corneas observed. The family history of KC, vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC), and myopia progression were identified as major risk factors.

The high prevalence of KC among children with high astigmatism in south Egypt underscores the importance of early screening in this high-risk population