Definitions:

1. A medical condition characterized by extreme dryness of the conjunctiva and cornea of the eye, primarily caused by a severe deficiency of vitamin A. NOUN
   • The doctor diagnosed the child with xerophthalmia due to a severe vitamin A deficiency.
2. Dryness of the eye surface caused by deficiency of tears or conjunctival secretions, associated with vitamin A deficiency, trauma, or any condition in which the eyelids do not close completely. NOUN
   • Xerophthalmia, a severe eye disease caused by vitamin A deficiency, can result in blindness if left untreated.

Synonyms:

• conjunctivitis arida
• xeroma
• xerophthalmus