Authors' objectives: To assess the available evidence on the efficacy, safety and coverage related aspects regarding the use of corneal collagen crosslinking with riboflavin in patients with keratoconus. Keratoconus is a disorder characterized by a progressive and bilateral increase in the corneal curvature with apical thinning, resulting in irregular corneal astigmatism. Its etiology is unknown. It affects children and young individuals; it stabilized after 30 years old. In the general population, its reported frequency is 1/2,000 individuals. Rigid contact lenses, rings or corneal transplantation may be used for therapy Crosslinking with riboflavin (CXL) is proposed as a treatment alternative for mild to moderate keratoconus, alone or as a supplement to other treatments. Crosslinking involves applying a photosensitive product (such as riboflavin) to the cornea and then activate it using type A ultraviolet rays to increase corneal rigidity by creating collagen bridges and thus stopping keratoconus progression.

Authors' recommendations: Low quality evidence is non-conclusive regarding the benefits corneal collagen crosslinking with riboflavin could provide keratoconus patients. Some studies suggest it could slightly improve visual acuity. Some clinical practice guidelines mention this is a treatment option for young people who do not tolerate lenses. Several health sponsors surveyed do not cover it because they consider it experimental and with no proven efficacy.

Project Status: Completed

Year Published: 2015

URL for published report: http://www.iecs.org.ar/publicacion/?id=5543

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Argentina

Organisation Name: Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy

Contact Address: Dr. Emilio Ravignani 2024, Buenos Aires - Argentina, C1414 CABA

Contact Name: info@iecs.org.ar

Contact Email: info@iecs.org.ar

Copyright: Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy (IECS)