Clinical and epidemiological behavior of keratoconus and its relationship with optometric management in Azogues (January 2021 - August 2022)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.71413/zybbx331Keywords:
Keratoconus, Clinical behavior, Optometric management, Prevalence, IncidenceAbstract
RELEVANCE: This study provides local evidence on the prevalence and clinical characteristics of keratoconus in Azogues, contributing to a better understanding of its visual and epidemiological impact. It offers essential information to strengthen early diagnosis and to support the standardization of optometric management in the region.
PURPOSE: To analyze the clinical and epidemiological behavior of keratoconus in patients treated at “Expolentes Óptica” and to identify the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of professionals working in different optical centers in the city of Azogues–Cañar, Ecuador, during the period from January 2021 to August 2022.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A quantitative, descriptive study was conducted. A total of 1,271 anonymized medical records from patients attended at “Expolentes Óptica” between January 2021 and August 2022 were analyzed, of which 99 had a diagnosis of keratoconus. Optometrists’ management of keratoconus was assessed through a survey addressing their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding this corneal disorder. Data were collected and processed using IBM SPSS 27 advanced statistical analysis software, following a framework designed for comprehensive and in-depth analysis.
RESULTS: A total of 5.42% of the study population was diagnosed with keratoconus; 50% of these cases corresponded to incident cases and the other 50% to prevalent cases. The mean age at diagnosis was 25.9 years, and 56.5% of patients with keratoconus were male. Among optometrists, 37.5% were able to identify therapeutic options and appropriately manage patient referrals; 50% were able to interpret corneal tomography. Although 87.5% had access to basic equipment, only 50% possessed advanced diagnostic technology. These findings show heterogeneous levels of knowledge, attitudes, and practices, highlighting the need to strengthen professional training and to unify clinical criteria in order to facilitate early diagnosis of keratoconus.
CONCLUSIONS: Keratoconus is a corneal disorder present in the population of Azogues and has a significant impact on the quality of life of affected individuals. There is no established consensus or guideline regarding its management within optometry. Therefore, further studies are recommended to guide clinical decision-making, as early diagnosis is crucial to slowing disease progression and preventing the need for more complex and costly treatments.
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