Keratoconus is a generally progressive protrusion of the cornea, which impairs vision due to the associated increasing curvature of the cornea. By cross-linking the collagen fibers and thus stiffening the cornea, further progression of the protrusion in keratoconus can usually be prevented. Cross-linking occurs through the interaction of UVA radiation and vitamin B2 (riboflavin), with which the cornea is saturated before exposure (see diagram below for the mode of action). The treatment is performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia using anesthetic eye drops.
