New research shows that keratoconus may be linked to certain inflammatory skin conditions, including eczema (atopic dermatitis), psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, and hives. People with these conditions were more likely to develop keratoconus than those without them. Rosacea did not show this connection. One possible reason is eye rubbing , which is common in itchy skin conditions and can slowly damage the cornea over time. Another reason may be inflammation in the body , which can weaken collagen—the protein that helps keep the cornea strong and stable. Because of this link, people with chronic inflammatory skin conditions may benefit from earlier and regular eye exams . Controlling inflammation and avoiding eye rubbing may help lower the risk of keratoconus or catch it earlier, when treatment is more effective.
Kevin,
ReplyDeleteI think this comment may be over-simplified. I believe that many high myopes will continue to "doctor shop" until they find a surgeon to perform their Lasik if they are highly motivated. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Lasik to a high myope, but I'd be sure to make them acutely aware of the potential risks. From that point on, it's their decision. I don't think that it's always greediness that leads to Lasik in a high myope. I tell all of my patients over -8.00 or -9.00 to consider ICL rather than Lasik, but ICL has risks too and there is no long term data, therefore this procedure may prove to be even higher risk than Lasik, we just don't know yet.
I do agree that there is a calculated risk with high myopia and Lasik, but I think the ultimite decision is the patient's.