Understanding keratoconus in children

The Collagen Factors of Rapid Progression of Keratoconus in Children: an Observational Cohort Study of the Physiological Parameter

Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University · NCT06722937

This study looks at the signs and causes of keratoconus in children to see how it differs from adults and to better understand this eye condition that can affect vision.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment160 (estimated)
Ages10 Years to 50 Years
SexAll
SponsorZhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University (other)
Locations1 site (Guangzhou, Guangdong)
Trial IDNCT06722937 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to investigate the clinical features and mechanisms of keratoconus in children compared to adults. It focuses on understanding the characteristics of keratoconus in Chinese children and utilizes in vivo corneal laser confocal microscopy to observe corneal stromal cells at the cytological level. The study seeks to clarify the pathogenesis of this progressive corneal disease, which can lead to significant visual impairment if untreated.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children and young adults aged 10 to 50 years diagnosed with keratoconus who can comply with follow-up examinations.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of contact lens wear in the last four weeks or those with other significant eye diseases may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and management of keratoconus in pediatric patients, potentially enhancing treatment outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While there is ongoing research on keratoconus, this specific focus on pediatric patients and their unique progression patterns is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* ① Patients with keratoconus who visit the refractive clinic.

  1. The height of the posterior corneal surface is greater than 16 microns under the Pentacam corneal topography.
  2. ARTAve \< 424 microns, ARTMax \< 339 microns.
  3. Clinical non-inflammatory or traumatic corneal thinning and corneal astigmatism.

     * Aged between 10 and 50 years old, no gender restrictions.

       * Agree to accept and complete follow-up examinations on time. ④ I and my guardian understand and agree to participate in this clinical trial and sign the informed consent form.

Exclusion Criteria:

* ① There is a history of contact lens wearing in the last four weeks.

  * poor fixation and can not cooperate with the examination. ③ History of eye trauma and surgery (including corneal collagen cross-linking surgery).

    * History of other related eye diseases: corneal disease, glaucoma, retinal choroid disease, etc..

      ⑤ severe eye diseases affecting imaging such as dry eye, conjunctivitis and pterygium.

      ⑥ Any systemic disease affecting eye morphology and refractive interstitium.

Where this trial is running

Guangzhou, Guangdong

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Keratoconus, keratoconus, pediatric, Corneal biomechanics, collagen

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.