Keratoconus C0022578
A progressive eye condition where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone shape, distorting vision. It usually develops in teenagers or young adults and can worsen over time. Glasses, special lenses, or surgery may help.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- H18.601, H18.602, H18.603
- ICD-11
- 9A00.0
- Body system
- ophthalmologic
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Corneal hydrops
Blurred vision
(ophthalmologic)Generalized symptoms
(ophthalmologic)Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Progressive visual distortion
(ophthalmologic)Photophobia
(ophthalmologic)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL)
A minimally invasive procedure that uses riboflavin eye drops and ultraviolet light to strengthen corneal collagen fibers, halting disease progression in progressive keratoconus.
Dietary counseling and physical activity plan
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Rigid Gas Permeable Contact Lens Fitting
Specialized contact lenses that create a smooth optical surface over the irregular cornea, providing improved visual acuity compared to spectacles in keratoconus patients.
Additional treatment options
Spectacle Correction
Custom-toric spectacle prescription to correct myopia and astigmatism in early to moderate keratoconus when contact lenses are not tolerated.
lifestyleIntracorneal Ring Segments
Small plastic arc segments implanted in the cornea to flatten and regularize the corneal shape, reducing astigmatism and improving contact lens fit.
surgicalProgressive Disease Monitoring
Regular topographic mapping and visual acuity assessment to track disease progression and determine timing of surgical interventions.
monitoringWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Keratoconus C0022578?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Gomes JA, Rapuano CJ, Belin MW, et al. Global Consensus on Keratoconus Diagnosis and Management. Cornea. 2021.
Santodomingo-Rubido J, Carracedo G, Suzaki A, et al. Keratoconus: A Review of Update on Pathogenesis, Risk Factors, and Clinical Management. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt. 2022.
Raiskup F, Theuring A, Pillunat LE, Spoerl E. Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking with Riboflavin and UV-A Light in Progressive Keratoconus: 5-Year Results. J Cataract Refract Surg. 2020.
Liu Y, Yam JC, Lee GY, et al. Efficacy and Safety of Corneal Cross-Linking for Keratoconus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Am J Ophthalmol. 2023.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Keratoconus C0022578. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy