Global assessment of keratoconus prevalence in children and adolescents

The K-Map Study, Global Prevalence of KC

Observational University Hospital, Geneva · NCT03115710

This study is trying to find out how common keratoconus is in kids and teens around the world by using special eye imaging techniques.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment20000 (estimated)
Ages6 Years to 23 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Geneva Academic / other
Locations12 sites (Los Angeles, California and 11 other locations)
Trial IDNCT03115710 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to evaluate the prevalence of keratoconus in children and adolescents across various global regions using advanced tomographic imaging techniques. By conducting bilateral corneal tomography examinations on participants aged 6 to 20 years who are visiting for non-ophthalmologic reasons, the study seeks to determine if the actual prevalence of keratoconus is higher than previously reported. The research will take place in multiple cities across North America, South America, Asia, and Europe, providing a comprehensive view of the condition's prevalence worldwide.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children and adolescents aged 6 to 20 years who are attending medical appointments for non-ophthalmologic reasons.

Not a fit: Patients with preexisting ocular diseases or conditions, as well as those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and awareness of keratoconus prevalence, potentially influencing early detection and treatment strategies.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on keratoconus, this approach of assessing global prevalence using modern imaging techniques is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Male or female, 6-23 years of age.
* Subjects seen for a non-ophthalmic appointment
* Provide signed and dated patient consent form (signed by parents / legal guardians).
* Willing to comply with all study procedures and be available for the duration of the study

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with a preexisting ocular disease / condition
* Pregnancy or breastfeeding

Where this trial is running

Los Angeles, California and 11 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions KeratoconusPrevalence
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.