[Light microscope and scanning electron microscope findings in acute keratoconus (author's transl)].

An acute keratoconus was examined for the first time using a scanning electron microscope. The alterations in the epithelium of the cornea consisted of a reduction in microvilli and microplicae structures, disruption of the intercellular spaces with raised protrusions of epithelial cells in the region of the peak of the keratoconus or even of the complete disappearance of all regular surface structures. In the stroma distinct irregularities in the lamellae, sometimes even the formation of cavities in the region of the cornea peak, could be seen. These findings correlate well with the light microscope pictures and with the published transmission electron microscopic results.