Introduction
The term Xerophthalmia refers to the
spectrum of progressive eye diseases under Vitamin A deficiency.
It ranges from night blindness to conjunctival xerosis, to Bitot’s spots, corneal xerosis and finally keratomalacial
Clinical features
- Night blindness
- Dryness of the conjunctiva and cornea (xerosis)
- Tearing
- Bitot’s spots
- Corneal degeneration (keratomalacia)
Differential diagnosis
- Measles keratoconjunctivitis
Complications
- Corneal perforation
- Corneal scarring
- Blindness
Investigations
- Conjunctival impression cytology (where available)
- Serum Vitamin A levels
Management
Non-drug treatment
- Nutrition education
Drug treatment
- Vitamin A capsules 200,000 units orally daily for two days, then one capsule after one week
- Topical antibiotics and antivirals where applicable
- Padding the eye (for active corneal ulceration)
Caution
- Avoid the use of harmful traditional eye
medication
Prevention
- Distribution of massive dose capsules of vitamin A to affected communities.
- Nutrition and health education
- Fortification of foods with vitamin A