• Merck Manual
• >
• Patients & Caregivers
• >
• Eye Disorders
• >
• Corneal Disorders
4

Keratomalacia (also called xerophthalmia or xerotic keratitis) is drying and clouding of the cornea due to vitamin A deficiency and insufficient protein and calories in the diet.

The surface of the conjunctiva and cornea dries, sometimes leading to corneal ulcers and bacterial infections. The tear glands are also affected, resulting in an inadequate tear film and dry eyes. Night blindness (poor vision in the dark) may develop because of the effects of vitamin A deficiency on the retina. The diagnosis of keratomalacia is based on the presence of a dry or ulcerated cornea in a undernourished person.

Antibiotic eye drops or ointments can help cure an infection, but correcting the vitamin A deficiency and undernutrition with an improved diet or supplements is also important.

Last full review/revision October 2008 by Melvin I. Roat, MD. FACS