Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder that affects the cornea, the transparent front surface of the eye. In this condition, the cornea thins and bulges into a cone-like shape, leading to distorted vision and astigmatism. Keratoconus typically starts during adolescence and gradually worsens over time. Guide Dogs states that for most people living with keratoconus, day-to-day life shouldn’t be affected. 

Platforms like Medditour connect the patients seeking treatments for keratoconus with the international hospitals and facilitators for cost-effective treatments.

With the rise of medical tourism, countries like India, Turkey, and Dubai have emerged as popular destinations for offering specialized care and advanced treatments for keratoconus.

Diagnosis of Keratoconus

Diagnosing keratoconus involves a comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist.

• Visual Acuity Test: An assessment of the patient’s visual acuity to determine the extent of vision impairment caused by keratoconus.

• Refraction Test: A refraction test is conducted to measure the degree of astigmatism and the patient’s need for corrective lenses.

• Corneal Topography: This advanced imaging technique creates a detailed map of the cornea’s curvature, helping to identify irregularities characteristic of keratoconus.

• Slit-Lamp Examination: A slit-lamp examination allows the ophthalmologist to examine the cornea’s surface and assess any thinning or protrusions indicative of keratoconus.

Treatment for Keratoconus

Commonly used treatments include:

• Glasses or Contact Lenses: In the early stages of keratoconus, mild cases can often be managed with prescription eyeglasses or special contact lenses designed for irregular corneas.

• Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL): This minimally invasive procedure involves applying riboflavin (Vitamin B2) eye drops to the cornea, followed by exposure to ultraviolet light.

• Intrastromal Corneal Ring Segments (ICRS): These tiny implants are inserted into the cornea to reshape it, improving vision and reducing the effects of keratoconus.

• Corneal Transplantation: In severe cases where other treatments are ineffective, a corneal transplant may be considered. During this procedure, a damaged cornea is replaced with a healthy donor cornea. Mayo Clinic states that cornea transplant for keratoconus generally is very successful. 

Medical Tourism for Keratoconus

Medical tourism has gained popularity due to its ability to provide access to specialized medical care at competitive costs. India, Turkey, and Dubai have become prominent destinations for medical tourists seeking treatment for keratoconus and other eye conditions.

India’s medical infrastructure has undergone significant growth, boasting world-class eye care centers equipped with state-of-the-art technology.

Turkey’s healthcare system has witnessed rapid advancements, attracting medical tourists from various regions. The country offers excellent eye care facilities, including specialists proficient in managing keratoconus through innovative treatments like CXL and ICRS.

Dubai has established itself as a leading medical tourism destination, offering top-notch healthcare services and advanced eye care treatments.

Medical tourism companies like Medditour provide opportunities for those seeking treatments for keratoconus and other eye conditions to combine their treatments with vacation.

In conclusion, keratoconus, a progressive eye disorder affecting the cornea, requires timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment to preserve vision and prevent further deterioration. Medical tourism in countries like India, Turkey, and Dubai provides an opportunity for patients to access specialized eye care and advanced treatments for keratoconus.