Keratoconus is the commonest cause of corneal transplant in Bahrain - Dr. Nada Al Yousuf
A study conducted by Dr Nada Al-Yousuf and co-workers revealed that keratoconus is the leading
cause for corneal transplant in Bahrain. This was followed by old trachoma, corneal edema, corneal
infections and others.
Keratoconus is a corneal disorders that affects teenagers and young adults. It presents as poor
vision that can be corrected initially with glasses. It progresses causing deterioration of vision that
cannot be corrected with glasses. It is then managed by special contact lenses in the initial stages
and by corneal transplant in the late stage. Dr Al-Yousuf recommends for teenagers and individual
whose glasses prescription changes rapidly, to be seen by an eye doctor to perform corneal test
called corneal topography. This ensures early diagnosis. If keratoconus is diagnosed early, it is
recommended for the patient to undergo crosslinking. This is a s preventative measure .
Crosslinking stops the keratoconus progression and the visual deterioration. Therefore, it prevents
the need for corneal transplant.