The exact main cause of keratoconus is currently unknown.
Understanding Keratoconus: Contributing Factors
While a definitive single cause has not been identified, research indicates that a combination of genetic and environmental factors are thought to play a significant role in the development of this progressive eye condition where the cornea thins and bulges into a cone-like shape.
Genetic Predisposition
Genetic factors are strongly implicated in the susceptibility to keratoconus:
- Family History: There is a clear hereditary component. Approximately 1 in 10 individuals diagnosed with keratoconus also has a parent with the condition, suggesting that a genetic predisposition can be inherited.
- Inherited Genes: Scientists are actively investigating specific genes that might contribute to the weakening of corneal tissue, making it more prone to the changes characteristic of keratoconus.
Environmental Influences
Alongside genetics, environmental elements are also believed to contribute to the onset and progression of keratoconus:
- External Factors: These may include factors that lead to chronic eye rubbing, allergies, or other forms of ocular stress and inflammation. While the precise mechanisms are still being explored, interactions between environmental triggers and an individual's genetic makeup are thought to influence the condition's development.
It is important to understand that keratoconus is a complex condition, and its onset is likely influenced by a multifaceted interaction between an individual's genetic background and their environment.
