Magnesium (2005) & Keratoconus

Learn more about keratoconus.

Early research into probable causes of keratoconus determined that one likely factor was magnesium deficiency. Reports pointed out that magnesium deficiency could negatively impact how the cornea works.

A number of white papers were reviewed in 2005 which collectively indicated that the connection is significant - that magnesium deficiencies cause molecular and cellular abnormalities which are similar to the abnormalities in cells comprising the cornea in keratoconus patients. The abnormal structures occur both within cells and in the spaces outside the cells. The changes include thinning and breaking down of membranes, cell and collagen fiber degeneration, mitochondria swelling, and biochemical abnormalities in synthesis of protein.

Reviewer: A. Thalasselis, Institute of Vision, Mar del Plata, Argentina.

Published: The possible relationship between keratoconus and magnesium deficiency, Thalasselis A., Ophthalmic & Physiological Optics, Jan. 2005, 25(1), pp 7-12.