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Ben-Shaul O, Segal A, Schwartz S, Stein N, Hyams M, Saliba W, Mimouni M. Factors associated with keratoconus in Israel-A cross-sectional population-based study. Acta Ophthalmol 2024. [PMID: 38742987 DOI: 10.1111/aos.16706] [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: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify potential factors associated with keratoconus. METHODS This cross-sectional study included data from Israel's largest healthcare provider for the years 2005-2020. Keratoconus patients and age-matched controls were identified. Demographic factors and comorbid conditions, including smoking, diabetes mellitus, asthma, myalgia, mental retardation, Down syndrome, atopic dermatitis and allergy/allergic rhinitis, were compared between the two cohorts. The independent risk factors associated with keratoconus were determined using a multivariable conditional logistic regression model. RESULTS Overall, 145 508 subjects were reviewed of which 13 228 were keratoconus patients. A ten-fold group (n = 132 280) of age-matched control subjects served as controls for comparisons. In multivariable analysis, several factors were found to be significantly associated with keratoconus. Male gender (OR = 1.27, p < 0.001), Arab ethnicity (OR = 1.50, p < 0.001), diabetes (OR = 1.19, p < 0.001), asthma (OR = 1.50, p < 0.001), myalgia (OR = 1.09, p = 0.02), mental retardation (OR = 2.63, p < 0.001), atopic dermatitis (OR = 1.35, p < 0.001) and allergic rhinitis (OR = 1.21, p < 0.001) were significantly associated with keratoconus. Smoking was significantly protective of keratoconus (OR = 0.66, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS This population-based study reports male gender, Arab ethnicity, diabetes, asthma, myalgia, mental retardation/Down syndrome, atopic dermatitis and allergic rhinitis as factors associated with keratoconus while smoking demonstrates a protective effect. The results of this study could guide enhanced screening strategies and early interventions, particularly for high-risk groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Or Ben-Shaul
- Department of Ophthalmology, Lady Davis Carmel Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
- Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Adi Segal
- Department of Ophthalmology, Lady Davis Carmel Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Sharon Schwartz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Lady Davis Carmel Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Nili Stein
- Department of Community Medicine and Epidemiology, Lady Davis Carmel Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Michael Hyams
- Department of Ophthalmology, Lady Davis Carmel Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Walid Saliba
- Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Department of Community Medicine and Epidemiology, Lady Davis Carmel Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Michael Mimouni
- Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
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Moshirfar M, Pandya S, Zhang S, Stoakes IM, Ayesha A, Hoopes PC. AvaGen Genetic Testing versus Ocular Screening Assessments Including the Keratoconus Severity Score (KSS) and Randleman Ectasia Risk Score System (ERSS) in Refractive Surgery Candidates. Clin Ophthalmol 2024; 18:1245-1255. [PMID: 38737593 PMCID: PMC11088376 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s452128] [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: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose To determine whether the AvaGen (AG) Genetic Eye Test provided additional information for screening for the presence of keratoconus (KC) and assessing KC risk in refractive surgery candidates, as compared to the Keratoconus Severity Score (KSS) and Randleman Ectasia Risk Score System (ERSS). Methods This retrospective study analyzed patients seeking refractive surgery at an eye clinic in the United States between January 2022 and July 2023. The inclusion criteria encompassed those with a family history of KC, positive KC indices, or both. Corneal evaluations and demographic information were recorded and analyzed. KSS and ERSS criteria were utilized to evaluate postoperative KC and ectasia risk, respectively. Patients were categorized on how the AG genetic test compared to KSS and ERSS criteria. Clinicians assessed topographic indices, criteria scoring, and AG testing to deliver a definitive surgical recommendation. Results Among the 19 patients evaluated for ectasia risk, AG testing showed lower KC risk than ocular screening in three patients (15.8%), equal risk in three patients (15.8%), and higher risk in 13 patients (68.4%). The mean AG scores were 45.7 ± 7.0, 49.0 ± 3.46, and 61 ± 13.0 for these respective categories. The most frequently identified KC risk genes were ADAMTS18, COL2A1, and COL4A1. The AG test modified the physician's recommendation for refractive surgery in nine cases (47.4%). Conclusion Despite the promising application of AG testing for assessing KC risk, further research and development are needed to enhance its applicability for screening refractive surgery candidates, in addition to standard ocular screening approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majid Moshirfar
- Hoopes Vision Research Center, Hoopes Vision, Draper, UT, USA
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Utah Lions Eye Bank, Murray, UT, USA
| | - Shreya Pandya
- University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Stephanie Zhang
- University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Isabella M Stoakes
- Hoopes Vision Research Center, Hoopes Vision, Draper, UT, USA
- Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences, Yakima, WA, USA
| | - Azraa Ayesha
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Ferrini E, Posarelli C, Figus M, Lisi D, Gabbriellini G. A pilot study on Langerhans cells in keratoconus patients by in vivo confocal microscopy before and after corneal cross-linking and correlation with eye rubbing. Cont Lens Anterior Eye 2024:102170. [PMID: 38677927 DOI: 10.1016/j.clae.2024.102170] [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: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to investigate the corneal microstructure and Langerhans cells using in vivo confocal microscopy in keratoconus patients before and after cross-linking, and to correlate the morphologic findings with clinical and patient-reported outcomes, including eye rubbing (ER) behavior. METHODS Patients with progressive keratoconus undergoing iontophoresis-assisted epithelium-on cross-linking (I-CXL) were consecutively enrolled. In vivo confocal microscopy was performed before and 6 months after treatment. Patients were asked to quantify their ER behavior on a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and completed the Keratoconus Outcomes Research Questionnaire and the Ocular Surface Disease Index questionnaires at the same time points. Visual acuity, tear osmolarity, topography, aberrometry, and pachymetry of both eyes were assessed. RESULTS Thirteen patients were included in this pilot study. Preoperatively, the mean Langerhans cells density was 35,615 cells per mm2, and the median morphology was 3. The mean ER VAS before treatment was 7,077 out of 10. The ER VAS showed significant positive correlations with both Langerhans cells density and morphology of the study eye. After treatment, a statistically significant reduction in ER VAS and in Langerhans cells variables was observed. The mean sub-basal plexus nerve density was comparable to pre-operative values 6 months after I-CXL. CONCLUSIONS Based on this preliminary evidence, the presence of high density of mature Langerhans cells in the central cornea of keratoconus patients and its correlation with eye rubbing support the role of inflammation in keratoconus. The reduction in these markers after treatment may suggest a potential of CXL in moderating immune-related inflammation and eye rubbing in the medium term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Ferrini
- Ophthalmology, Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Savi 10, 50126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Chiara Posarelli
- Ophthalmology, Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Savi 10, 50126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Michele Figus
- Ophthalmology, Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Savi 10, 50126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Domenico Lisi
- Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Via Paradisa 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Giovanna Gabbriellini
- Ophthalmology, Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Savi 10, 50126 Pisa, Italy
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Alshammari ZA, Ali A, Alshammari LK, Alassaf OM, Alshehri AYA, AlSarhan R, Alanazi B. The Level of Awareness of Keratoconus Among the General Population in Hail Region, Saudi Arabia. Cureus 2023; 15:e50026. [PMID: 38186449 PMCID: PMC10767694 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.50026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Keratoconus (KC) is a non-inflammatory corneal disease with an early onset in adulthood, leading to a reduction in visual acuity. This study aims to evaluate the level of awareness of keratoconus among the general population in the Hail region of Saudi Arabia. Methodology Data were collected through a pre-designed and pre-validated online questionnaire (Appendix) distributed via social media platforms. The questionnaire was divided into two sections. The first section included demographic profiles, while the second section inquired about knowledge and awareness regarding Keratoconus. The collected data was reviewed, coded, and inputted into IBM Corp. Released 2013. IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 22.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp. Statistical analyses were performed using the Pearson Chi-Square test, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results The total number of respondents was 550, among whom 40% were males and 60% were females. 79.6% of the participants were in the age range of 18-30 years. The level of education and a positive family history of KC showed significant associations with the level of knowledge about KC (p<0.05). The age group had a non-significant association (p=0.059), while gender had a significant association with the level of knowledge about keratoconus (p<0.05). Conclusion In conclusion, the overall awareness regarding KC progression, interventions, and the consequences of eye rubbing was limited among the participants. Specific efforts are crucial to enhance public awareness and understanding of KC, ensuring a more informed and proactive approach to eye health within the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaki A Alshammari
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Hail College of Medicine, Hail, SAU
| | - Abrar Ali
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Hail College of Medicine, Hail, SAU
| | | | | | | | - Reem AlSarhan
- Clinical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Basmah Alanazi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Hail College of Medicine, Hail, SAU
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Kondkar AA, Azad TA, Sultan T, Khatlani T, Alshehri AA, Lobo GP, Kalantan H, Al-Obeidan SA, Al-Muammar AM. Association between Polymorphism rs61876744 in PNPLA2 Gene and Keratoconus in a Saudi Cohort. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:2108. [PMID: 38136930 PMCID: PMC10742661 DOI: 10.3390/genes14122108] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The genetic etiology of Keratoconus (KC) in Middle Eastern Arabs of Saudi origin is still unclear. A recent genome-wide study identified two significant loci in the region of PNPLA2 (rs61876744) and CSNK1E (rs138380) for KC that may be associated with KC in the Saudi population. In addition, polymorphisms in the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene, namely, rs429358 and rs7412, responsible for APOE allelic variants ε2, ε3, and ε4, may influence KC via oxidative stress mechanism(s). Thus, we investigated the possible association of polymorphisms rs61876744, rs138380, rs429358, rs7412, and APOE genotypes in KC patients of the Saudi population. This study included 98 KC cases and 167 controls. Polymorphisms rs6187644 and rs138380 were genotyped using TaqMan assays, and rs429358 and rs7412 were genotyped via Sanger sequencing. Although the allele frequency of rs61876744(T) in PNPLA2 was a protective effect against KC (odds ratio (OR) = 0.64, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.44-0.93), the p-value (p = 0.020) was not significant for multiple testing correction (p = 0.05/4 = 0.015). However, rs6187644 genotype showed a modestly significant protective effect in the dominant model (OR = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.32-0.88, p = 0.013). Polymorphisms rs138380, rs429358, and rs7412 showed no significant allelic or genotype association with KC. However, the ε2-carriers (ε2/ε2 and ε2/ε3 genotypes) exhibited a greater than 5-fold increased risk of KC, albeit non-significantly (p = 0.055). Regression analysis showed no significant effect of age, gender, and the four polymorphisms on KC. Our results suggest that polymorphism rs6187644 in PNPLA2 might be associated with KC in the Middle Eastern Arabs of Saudi origin but warrant a large-scale association analysis at this locus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Altaf A. Kondkar
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11411, Saudi Arabia; (T.A.A.); (T.S.); (H.K.); (S.A.A.-O.); (A.M.A.-M.)
- Glaucoma Research Chair in Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11411, Saudi Arabia
- King Saud University Medical City, King Saud University, Riyadh 11411, Saudi Arabia
| | - Taif A. Azad
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11411, Saudi Arabia; (T.A.A.); (T.S.); (H.K.); (S.A.A.-O.); (A.M.A.-M.)
| | - Tahira Sultan
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11411, Saudi Arabia; (T.A.A.); (T.S.); (H.K.); (S.A.A.-O.); (A.M.A.-M.)
| | - Tanvir Khatlani
- Department of Blood and Cancer Research, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University of Health Sciences, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Abdulaziz A. Alshehri
- Department of Ophthalmology, Imam Abdulrahman Alfaisal Hospital, Riyadh 14723, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Glenn P. Lobo
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55347, USA;
| | - Hatem Kalantan
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11411, Saudi Arabia; (T.A.A.); (T.S.); (H.K.); (S.A.A.-O.); (A.M.A.-M.)
| | - Saleh A. Al-Obeidan
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11411, Saudi Arabia; (T.A.A.); (T.S.); (H.K.); (S.A.A.-O.); (A.M.A.-M.)
- Glaucoma Research Chair in Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11411, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulrahman M. Al-Muammar
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11411, Saudi Arabia; (T.A.A.); (T.S.); (H.K.); (S.A.A.-O.); (A.M.A.-M.)
- King Saud University Medical City, King Saud University, Riyadh 11411, Saudi Arabia
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Al Zabadi H, Shehadeh M, Amro L, Ghattass N, Taha I. Vision-related quality of life among patients with keratoconus: a cross sectional study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1208911. [PMID: 37636581 PMCID: PMC10448050 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1208911] [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: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The present study aimed to evaluate the quality of life of keratoconus patients residing in Nablus city, Palestine. Furthermore, we investigated the possible correlation between Pentacam topographic indices and the quality of life of patients with keratoconus. Methods This cross-sectional study evaluated keratoconus patients at An-Najah University Hospital in 2019, diagnosed through clinical examination and corneal tomography. A control group was randomly selected from non-keratoconus patients with normal tomography. The NEI-VFQ-25 questionnaire was administered during face-to-face interviews to compare both groups. NEI-VFQ-25 assesses vision-related quality of life and is a validated tool. Results Keratoconus patients' quality of life is significantly impacted, mainly in near and distant vision, general vision, mental health, and social health, but not in general health, ocular pain, color vision, role difficulties, or dependency. Visual acuity is significantly affected in both eyes of keratoconus patients. Conclusion Patients with keratoconus exhibit a decreased quality of life related to vision, with physical, emotional, and social impairments demonstrated by the NEI-VFQ-25 when compared to controls. Since keratoconus patients are typically young adults in their productive years, understanding their concerns about their future is an important public health aspect that can aid in modifying their treatments. By addressing the specific needs of this patient population, healthcare providers can better support their long-term well-being and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamzeh Al Zabadi
- Public Health Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Mohammad Shehadeh
- Opthalmology Department, An-Najah National University Hospital, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Lubna Amro
- Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Nadeen Ghattass
- Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Ibrahim Taha
- Optometry Department, Arab American University, Ramallah, Palestine
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Awad EA, Torky MA, Bassiouny RM, Khattab AM, Elzehery RR, Elhelaly RM. Thyroid gland dysfunction and vitamin D receptor gene polymorphism in keratoconus. Eye (Lond) 2023; 37:1602-1607. [PMID: 35915233 PMCID: PMC10220045 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-022-02172-6] [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: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To detect the serum level of thyroid hormones, vitamin D and vitamin D receptors (VDR) polymorphism in keratoconus (KC) patients and to identify the association between vitamin D deficiency and thyroid dysfunction in KC. METHODS This cross sectional study included 177 KC patients with no thyroid disorders compared to 85 healthy controls with normal corneal tomography. Measurements of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (FT3), free tetraiodothyronine (FT4) and serum 25-OH vitamin D were done using Enzyme linked immusoassay (ELISA test). VDR polymorphisms were tested including [Taq I (rs731236), Apa I (rs7975232) and Bsm I (rs1544410)] using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). RESULTS An increase in frequency of thyroid disorders (P = 0.04), decrease in serum 25(OH) vitamin D level (P < 0.001), Taq 1 and tt genotype (P < 0.001) were significantly distributed in KC patients. A significantly higher serum 25(OH) vitamin D level was reported in TT genotype, while insufficient level was more common in Tt genotype (P < 0.001). A deficient serum 25(OH) vitamin D level was predominant in tt genotype (P < 0.001). A 95% confidence interval was in TSH (1.603, 2.946), FT4 (24.145, 77.06), hypothyroidism (1.062, 67.63), insufficient (2.936, 11.643) and deficient vitamin D (5.283, 28.704) and all were significant risk factors for KC with (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Both thyroid disorders and low vitamin D are potential factors for KC development. Studying VDR at the molecular level provides interesting avenues for future research toward the identification of new KC cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman A Awad
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mansoura Ophthalmic Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt.
| | - Magda A Torky
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mansoura Ophthalmic Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Rania M Bassiouny
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mansoura Ophthalmic Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Abeer M Khattab
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mansoura Ophthalmic Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Rasha R Elzehery
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Rania M Elhelaly
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
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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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Clinical-epidemiological characteristics of keratoconus in Asturias. ARCHIVOS DE LA SOCIEDAD ESPANOLA DE OFTALMOLOGIA 2023; 98:65-71. [PMID: 36375756 DOI: 10.1016/j.oftale.2022.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Keratoconus is the most frequent corneal ectasia and second most common cause of keratoplasty worldwide. The clinical and epidemiological characteristics of keratoconus have rarely been studied in Spain, and to date, no study has been done in Asturias. MATERIAL AND METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted to analyze all cases of keratoconus diagnosed in the first consultations of the Cornea and Surface section of the Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias (Oviedo) and Hospital Universitario de Cabueñes (Gijón) between 2017 and 2020. Demographic data, visual acuity and corneal topography were collected. RESULTS A total of 112 patients (42.0% women and 58.0% men) were included. The mean age was 36.84 ± 15.59, with 39.3% being older than 40 years. 31.8%, 28.0%, 15.0%, and 25.2% were in stages I, II, III and IV, Amsler-Krumeich scale, respectively. Corneal segments were implanted in 7.5% of patients, cross-linking was performed in 4.7%, and keratoplasty was performed in 13.2%. CONCLUSION Approximately 40% of keratoconus cases are detected at advanced stages and another 40% are detected at an age over 40 years. 13% of these patients require keratoplasty, which is why it is frequently performed in our setting. Therefore, early diagnosis before irreversible visual loss is necessary.
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Ayukotang EN, Moodley VR, Mashige KP. Risk Profile of Keratoconus among Secondary School Students in the West Region of Cameroon. Vision (Basel) 2022; 7:vision7010002. [PMID: 36649049 PMCID: PMC9844398 DOI: 10.3390/vision7010002] [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: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
This study determined the risk factors of keratoconus (KC) among secondary school students in the West Region of Cameroon. A stratified, random sampling technique was used to select the 3015 secondary school students, 8 years and older, within the West Region of Cameroon. Selected school students completed the validated Keratoconus Risk Investigative Survey (KRIS) and a structured demographic questionnaire to determine the risk profile of KC. Descriptive analysis, logistic regression and p-values were used to provide an overview of the demographic findings and the risk factors of KC. Estimates were made as the proportion of affected school students and presented with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the association between KC and the independent predictors that were found significant in the univariate analysis. The ages of the majority (93.2%) of students ranged from eight years to 18 years (mean = 13.18 ± years) and were mostly female (59.7%). Gender (OR 2.024, p < 0.001), eye rubbing (OR 3.615, p < 0.001), exposure to sunlight (OR 2.735, p < 0.001), blood relations with KC (OR 41.819, p < 0.001) and allergic experience (OR 1.070, p < 0.001) were considered. Eye rubbing was the most significant risk factor of keratoconus followed by refractive error, allergic experiences and sunlight exposure. These findings support the evidence that the etiology of KC is multifactorial, with eye rubbing being the most significant factor in this cohort. There is a need to address eye rubbing among students to minimize the risk of KC. Furthermore, 34.46% of students in Cameroon were at risk of developing KC. Hence the risk profile is that one engages in eye rubbing, has a family member with KC, spends more than eight hours per week in the sun and is prone to allergies. It will therefore be prudent for these risk factors for keratoconus to be included in the school health education programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enowntai Nkongho Ayukotang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Buea P.O. Box 63, Cameroon
- African Vision Research Institute, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X54001, Durban 4000, South Africa
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +237-674652651
| | - Vanessa Raquel Moodley
- Discipline of Optometry, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X54001, Durban 4000, South Africa
| | - Khathutshelo Percy Mashige
- African Vision Research Institute, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X54001, Durban 4000, South Africa
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Santodomingo-Rubido J, Carracedo G, Suzaki A, Villa-Collar C, Vincent SJ, Wolffsohn JS. Keratoconus: An updated review. Cont Lens Anterior Eye 2022; 45:101559. [PMID: 34991971 DOI: 10.1016/j.clae.2021.101559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 79.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Keratoconus is a bilateral and asymmetric disease which results in progressive thinning and steeping of the cornea leading to irregular astigmatism and decreased visual acuity. Traditionally, the condition has been described as a noninflammatory disease; however, more recently it has been associated with ocular inflammation. Keratoconus normally develops in the second and third decades of life and progresses until the fourth decade. The condition affects all ethnicities and both sexes. The prevalence and incidence rates of keratoconus have been estimated to be between 0.2 and 4,790 per 100,000 persons and 1.5 and 25 cases per 100,000 persons/year, respectively, with highest rates typically occurring in 20- to 30-year-olds and Middle Eastern and Asian ethnicities. Progressive stromal thinning, rupture of the anterior limiting membrane, and subsequent ectasia of the central/paracentral cornea are the most commonly observed histopathological findings. A family history of keratoconus, eye rubbing, eczema, asthma, and allergy are risk factors for developing keratoconus. Detecting keratoconus in its earliest stages remains a challenge. Corneal topography is the primary diagnostic tool for keratoconus detection. In incipient cases, however, the use of a single parameter to diagnose keratoconus is insufficient, and in addition to corneal topography, corneal pachymetry and higher order aberration data are now commonly used. Keratoconus severity and progression may be classified based on morphological features and disease evolution, ocular signs, and index-based systems. Keratoconus treatment varies depending on disease severity and progression. Mild cases are typically treated with spectacles, moderate cases with contact lenses, while severe cases that cannot be managed with scleral contact lenses may require corneal surgery. Mild to moderate cases of progressive keratoconus may also be treated surgically, most commonly with corneal cross-linking. This article provides an updated review on the definition, epidemiology, histopathology, aetiology and pathogenesis, clinical features, detection, classification, and management and treatment strategies for keratoconus.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gonzalo Carracedo
- Department of Optometry and Vision, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Asaki Suzaki
- Clinical Research and Development Center, Menicon Co., Ltd., Nagoya, Japan
| | - Cesar Villa-Collar
- Department of Pharmacy, Biotechnology, Nutrition, Optics and Optometry, Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Stephen J Vincent
- Contact Lens and Visual Optics Laboratory, School of Optometry and Vision Science, Centre for Vision and Eye Research, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - James S Wolffsohn
- School of optometry, Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham B4 7ET, United Kingdom
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Screening of Keratoconus Using Autokeratometer and Keratometer Keratoconus Index. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11112120. [PMID: 34829466 PMCID: PMC8619968 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11112120] [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: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The keratometer keratoconus index (KKI) is a diagnostic index for the risk of keratoconus calculated from autokeratometer test values. We partially modified the KKI equation and assessed it without limiting the target age and severity of keratoconus. This retrospective study included 179 eyes of 99 patients with keratoconus and 468 eyes from 235 normal controls. In the modified KKI, oblique astigmatism or against-the-rule astigmatism was defined as ≥1D astigmatism. KKI diagnostic power was analyzed in subgroups of <50 and ≥50-year-old patients, and at different keratoconus stages. Although the sensitivity of modified KKI was comparable with that of original KKI (92.7% vs. 95.5%), modified KKI specificity was significantly higher (79.7% vs. 68.6%) (p = 0.0001). Using the modified KKI, sensitivity reached 100% (4/4) and specificity, 63.5% (33/52), in ≥50-year-old patients, while overall sensitivity in keratoconus ≥stage 2 was 100% (30/30). In conclusion, the modified KKI proved to be effective in keratoconus screening at all stages. However, it should be noted that false-positive frequency is higher in ≥50-year-old patients.
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