Xerophthalmia

Xerophthalmia is the range of eye disorders caused by vitamin A deficiency, affecting the conjunctiva, cornea and retina. It is common where diets are poor and infections such as measles and diarrhoea are frequent, and young children and pregnant women are worst affected; it is a leading preventable cause of childhood blindness. Causes are an inadequate dietary intake of vitamin A and conditions that disturb its metabolism or storage, including chronic liver disease, alcohol misuse, inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis and upper gastrointestinal surgery. Night blindness is usually the first sign, followed by dry conjunctiva, Bitot spots and corneal dryness, ulceration and softening (keratomalacia) that can end in blindness. Diagnosis rests on clinical signs and history, supported by serum vitamin A measurement and dark adaptation testing. Treatment is vitamin A supplementation, with preservative-free artificial tears and antibiotics for secondary bacterial infection, alongside correction of diet and underlying disease.

Seek emergency care for sudden loss of vision, a painful red eye, or flashes and floaters that appear suddenly. See an eye specialist for gradual vision change, halos around lights, or a family history of glaucoma. Call the local emergency number for any symptom that is sudden and severe. This page is a reference for healthcare professionals and does not replace an assessment.