• A nutritional condition produced by a deficiency of vitamin a in the diet, characterized by night blindness and other ocular manifestations such as dryness of the conjunctiva and later of the cornea (xerophthalmia). Vitamin a deficiency is a very common problem worldwide, particularly in developing countries as a consequence of famine or shortages of vitamin a-rich foods. In the United States it is found among the urban poor, the elderly, alcoholics, and patients with malabsorption. (from cecil textbook of medicine, 19th ed, p1179)
  • Condition due to a deficiency of vitamin a.
  • Deficiency of vitamin a due to malnutrition, malabsorption, or dietary lack. It is manifested with reduced night vision, night blindness, and xerophthalmia.