Corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) with riboflavin and UV-A light is primarily used for which purpose in keratoconus management?

• A To reverse established corneal thinning and restore normal topography
• B To improve best-corrected visual acuity by flattening the cornea
• C To treat acute hydrops and promote corneal healing
• D To halt progression of corneal ectasia by increasing corneal stromal rigidity ✓

Explanation

CXL with riboflavin (vitamin B2) and UVA-365 nm induces additional covalent cross-links between collagen fibrils in the corneal stroma via photochemical oxidation (formation of reactive oxygen species), increasing stromal rigidity and biomechanical stability to halt keratoconus progression. It does not reverse existing thinning or flatten the cone, and BCVA improvement is variable. Acute hydrops is managed conservatively; CXL may be used in selected post-hydrops cases but is not the primary treatment.

Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.