Distribution of Keratoconus by Age and Gender Groups in a Tertiary Eye Center: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background To compare pediatric and adult populations, this study examines keratoconus characteristics among different age groups and genders at a tertiary eye center. Materials and Methods This study evaluated a total of 240 eyes from 120 diagnosed keratoconus patients according to four different age groups (0–12, 13–18, 19–25, ≥ 26 years). Pentacam corneal topography and pachymetry were used in the diagnostic processes, and disease staging was performed according to the Amsler-Krumeich classification. Additionally, comprehensive corneal parameters were recorded; anterior and posterior surface measurements (K1, K2, KM, and astigmatism), corneal thickness, volume, anterior chamber depth, and Belin-Ambrosio enhanced ectasia parameters. Results Gender distribution, disease stage, and visual acuity were similar across age groups. The 0–12 age group showed higher central corneal thickness compared to the 13–18 and 19–25 age groups, while anterior and posterior surface curvature measurements (K1, K2, and KM) exhibited significant differences between pediatric and adult groups. In females, keratoconus stages, anterior surface K1, K2, KM, posterior surface K1, K2, KM, D, and Q-VAL values were found to be significantly higher (p < 0.05) than in males, while the IT value was significantly lower (p < 0.05). Conclusion Our findings reveal that corneal thickness, curvature, and progression indices show a significant increase in keratoconus patients, especially in the 0–12 age group, and emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and age-appropriate treatment strategies.