This day is dedicated to help raise awareness about keratoconus (KC), as well as educate and advocate for those living with KC.

We aim to do this by:

• Encouraging people around the world to share their KC stories
• Educating patients, friends and family about keratoconus
• Collaborating with fellow KC organizations

What is Keratoconus?

Keratoconus, often abbreviated to “KC”, is a non-inflammatory eye condition in which the normally round dome-shaped cornea progressively thins causing a cone-like bulge to develop. This results in significant visual impairment.

Who is The National Keratoconus Foundation?

The National Keratoconus Foundation (NKCF) is an educational program of The Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, UC Irvine, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

NKCF is dedicated to the dissemination of information about keratoconus to patients, their families, and eye care professionals. We do this through:

• The publication and circulation of literature and seminars.
• Through the organization of keratoconus patients and eye care professionals on a local level for the purpose of mutual dialog and support.
• Raising funds to support scientific research into the causes, treatment and possible cure of keratoconus.

Treating Keratoconus

There are 2 methods of treatment for keratoconus:

1. Therapeutic Contact Lenses Therapeutic contact lenses differ from usual contact lenses in both physical characteristics and purpose. There are different types of therapeutic lenses designed and prescribed for the treatment of ocular diseases. Only 1% of all contact lenses, however, are therapeutic lenses, while the remainder are worn for either convenience, appearance, or for certain elective visual advantages. The therapeutic lens for keratoconus is fitted as a physical replacement for the deformed cornea, thereby providing a regular surface and improving vision.

2. Collagen Cross-linking System

Corneal Collagen Cross-linking with Riboflavin (CXL) is a developing keratoconus treatment. CXL works by increasing collagen cross-links which are the natural ‘anchors’ within the cornea. These anchors are responsible for preventing the cornea from bulging out and becoming steep and irregular.

Collagen cross-linking is not a cure for keratoconus. The aim of this treatment is to arrest the progression of keratoconus and thereby prevent further deterioration in vision and the need for corneal transplantation.