Addressing the Gap in Keratoconus Diagnosis - Summary - MDSpire
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Addressing the Gap in Keratoconus Diagnosis

Early screening and the new Epioxa treatment could transform keratoconus care.

  • By

  • Tiffany Andrzejewski, OD

  • Parag A. Majmudar, MD

  • July 1, 2026

  • 10 min

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Objective:

To highlight the importance of early screening and diagnosis of keratoconus (KC) to prevent vision loss and address the challenges in current detection methods.

Approach:
  • Treatment Insights: Reviews the low rates of cross-linking therapy and discusses the significance of the recent FDA approval of epithelium-on, oxygen-enriched corneal cross-linking (Epioxa), which allows for earlier treatment without the need for documented progression.
Key Findings:
  • About 70% of patients are diagnosed at moderate to advanced stages of KC, highlighting the need for earlier detection.
  • Only about 12% of newly diagnosed patients receive cross-linking therapy, indicating a gap in treatment access.
  • Early detection is crucial as changes in vision can be gradual and lead to significant loss if untreated.
  • Certain groups, such as those with Down syndrome and sleep apnea, have elevated risk for KC.
Interpretation:

The article stresses the critical need for improved awareness and screening for keratoconus to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment, which can significantly alter patient outcomes.

Limitations:
  • Current screening methods are not widely available in primary care settings, which limits early detection.
  • Public awareness of keratoconus is low compared to other eye diseases, contributing to delayed diagnosis.
Conclusion:

Early diagnosis and treatment of keratoconus can prevent severe vision loss.

Original Source(s)

Addressing the Gap in Keratoconus Diagnosis

  • by Tiffany Andrzejewski, OD, Parag A. Majmudar, MD

  • July 1, 2026

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