ESCRS - PP02.18 - K-Map Multicenter Trial: A Landmark Multicenter Investigation On Keratoconus Prevalence In Russia

K-Map Multicenter Trial: A Landmark Multicenter Investigation On Keratoconus Prevalence In Russia

Published 2025 - 43rd Congress of the ESCRS

Reference: PP02.18 | Type: Poster | DOI: 10.82333/z3p7-qe71

Authors: Emilio A. Torres-Netto* 1 , Farhad Hafezi 1 , M. Enes Aydemir 1 , Mark Hillen 1 , Nanji Lu Lu 2 , Leonard Kollros 1 , Nikki Hafezi 1 , Jost B. Jonas 3 , Gyulli M. Kazakbaeva 4 , Mukharram M. Bikbov 5

1ELZA Institute ,Zurich,Switzerland, 2West China Hospital, Sichuan University,West China School of Medicine,Chengdu,China, 3Rothschild Foundation Hospital,Paris,France;Department of Ophthalmology of the Medical Faculty Mannheim of Heidelberg University.,Heidelberg,Germany;Beijing Visual Science and Translational Eye Research Institute ,Beijing,China;Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Tsinghua Medicine, Tsinghua University,Beijing,China;L V Prasad Eye Institute,Hyderabad,India, 4Ufa Eye Research Institute, Bashkir State Medical University,Ufa,Russian Federation, 5Ufa Eye Research Institute, Bashkir State Medical University ,Ufa,Russian Federation

Purpose

To evaluate the prevalence of keratoconus in Russia through the K-MAP (Keratoconus Mapping and Prevalence) Study, a multicenter epidemiological trial utilizing modern diagnostic technology. This study represents the first of its kind in the region, providing novel insights into keratoconus epidemiology.

Setting

A population-based study conducted at the Ufa Eye Research Institute, Ufa, Russia, as part of a global K-MAP initiative.

Methods

This is a prospective, observational, population-based study enrolling participants across various age groups. Keratoconus diagnosis was determined by multiple corneal experts using Scheimpflug imaging (Pentacam HR, Oculus, Germany). Data are systematically recorded and analyzed to determine the prevalence of keratoconus and its associations with demographic and ocular parameters. 

Results

A total of 6,440 eyes were collected and analyzed to determine the prevalence of keratoconus in the Russian population. Data collection has been completed, and the final analysis of prevalence rates is currently in its final phase. This study represents the initial phase of a broader global prevalence investigation.

Conclusions

The K-MAP study represents the first large-scale epidemiological investigation of keratoconus in Russia, utilizing standardized, modern imaging technology. Similar studies, such as one conducted in Saudi Arabia, have reported a higher prevalence of keratoconus than previously recognized, suggesting potential geographical and ethnic variations in disease occurrence. Our findings will contribute to a better understanding of regional prevalence and inform early detection strategies for keratoconus. Identifying regional variations in keratoconus prevalence is crucial for developing targeted public health policies and allocating resources effectively.