xerophthalmia

[zeer-of-thal-mee-uh, -op-]

noun

Ophthalmology.

1. abnormal dryness of the eyeball characterized by conjunctivitis, caused by a deficiency of tears and attributed to a lack of vitamin A.

xerophthalmia

/ ˌzɪərɒfˈθælmɪə /

noun

1. Also called: xeroma. pathol excessive dryness of the cornea and conjunctiva, caused by a deficiency of vitamin A

Other Word Forms

• xerophthalmic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of xerophthalmia¹

1650–60; xer- ( def. ) + ophthalmia

Example Sentences

McCollum claims that this vitamine is likewise a factor in the prevention of the eye disease known as xerophthalmia, and other scientists also hold this opinion.

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Fat-soluble A, especially with certain minerals, is thought to prevent rickets and a disease of the eye called xerophthalmia.

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