xeroma /xe·ro·ma/ (ze-ro´mah) abnormal dryness of the conjunctiva; xerophthalmia.
xe·ro·ma (z -r  m )n. See xerophthalmia. |
xeroma
abnormal dryness of the conjunctiva; xerophthalmia.
xerophthalmia
Extreme dryness of the conjunctiva and cornea due to a failure of the secretory activity of the mucin-secreting goblet cells of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva and cornea lose their lustre and become skin-like in appearance. The condition may even propagate to the cornea and give rise to keratoconjunctivitis sicca and, if severe, keratomalacia. Xerophthalmia may be due to trauma, exposure or systemic deficiency of vitamin A, etc. Syn. xeroma; xerosis of the conjunctiva (if the cornea is not involved). See keratoconjunctivitis sicca; keratomalacia; mucin; Bitot's spot.
How to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit webmaster's page for free fun content.
| ?Page tools | ||
|---|---|---|
|