Thalasselis syndrome and genetic theories on keratoconus.

BACKGROUND: Previous theories of the pathogenesis of keratoconus have only described partial aspects of the disease. METHODS: Studies are reviewed that have demonstrated a statistical and physiological relation between keratoconus, magnesium deficiency, type A behavior, and allergy, which constitute the Thalasselis Syndrome. RESULTS: The Thalasselis syndrome integrates old and new theories on keratoconus, mitral valve prolapse, and tetany/menopause. Keratoconus is also associated with genetic diseases like Down syndrome, Marfan syndrome, and other conditions related to collagen disturbance and biochemical abnormalities in protein synthesis. CONCLUSIONS: This syndrome suggests that the genetic disturbance that causes these alterations could be influenced by metabolic factors in which magnesium deficiency could be involved.

Keratoconus-tetany-menopause: the new association.

This report describes the unusual case of 46-year-old white European woman who presented spontaneous keratoconus. This case suggests a new association: keratoconus-tetany-menopause. This can be explained by Thalasselis' syndrome, a syndrome showing a relation between keratoconus, magnesium (Mg) deficiency, type A behavior, and allergy. Furthermore, Thalasselis' syndrome integrates old and new theories. This report also suggests that the alteration induced by severe but reversible Mg deficiency at the intra- and extracellular levels, associated with metabolic and hormonal imbalances, may trigger the development of keratoconus. Clinical data which support this thesis are reported.

Thalasselis' syndrome and other theories on keratoconus.

The etiology of keratoconus is still unclear. This study presents a new clinical sign, Thalasselis' syndrome, defined as: an association between keratoconus, magnesium deficiency, type-A behavior and allergy. Also, it introduces the hypothesis that magnesium deficiency could affect pathologically the osmotic mechanism of the cornea, specifically the Na-K and/or Ca-ATPase pumps; the collagen structure by alteration of the adenylate cyclase activity; and other mechanisms as well. Furthermore, we propose the Thalasselis' syndrome is compatible with previous theories on keratoconus. In addition to the other therapeutic measures, such as contact lenses and keratoplasty, this study suggests a clinical, nutritional, psychological, and immunological treatment for keratoconic patients.

Keratoconus, magnesium deficiency, type A behavior, and allergy.

The etiology of keratoconus is still unknown. This project was designed to study, in a group of keratoconic patients and a control group, the following: clinical, endocrinological, immunological, psychological, and ophthalmological factors. We found mean serum magnesium deficiency and type A behavior to be significantly more common in keratoconic patients than in a control group of patients. In addition changes in gluco-mineral corticoids, changes in glucose metabolism, edema of allergic origin, and genetic factors may collaborate in the development of keratoconus. All these factors could affect the osmotic mechanism of the cornea: Na-K and/or Ca ATPase, the collagen structure by alteration of the adenylate cyclase activity, and other mechanisms. This study suggests an association between keratoconus, magnesium depletion, and type A behavior, which together constitute a new clinical syndrome and confirm an association between keratoconus and atopy.

Mycotic conjunctivitis: an overview.

Mycotic conjunctivitis is a clinical entity which is associated with soft contact lens wear. This paper reviews the laboratory research data about the cause, symptoms and therapy.