Keratoconus is a degenerative ocular disorder characterized by the thinning and weakening of the cornea, which is the eye's outermost layer. Over time, this weakening leads to a transformation of the cornea's shape, changing from its usual round, dome-like structure to a cone-like bulge. This occurs because the cornea can no longer maintain its strength and form.
This condition is more common than once thought, often presenting in a mild form. It usually begins to manifest during an individual's teenage years or early twenties, as noted by Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS. The alteration in the cornea’s shape due to keratoconus can significantly affect vision, necessitating medical attention to manage its progression.