Alacrima Congenital Autosomal Recessive C4012597
Congenital alacrima is a rare inherited condition where tear glands fail to develop properly, resulting in severely reduced or absent tear production from birth. It follows an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern. Management focuses on keeping the eyes moist with artificial tears and protecting the cornea.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- Q15.9
- ICD-11
- LA00.0
- Body system
- ophthalmologic
- Severity
- mild
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Acute corneal ulcer with severe pain
Generalized symptoms
(ophthalmologic)Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Persistent ocular dryness
(ophthalmologic)Gritty sensation in eyes
(ophthalmologic)Corneal erosion
(ophthalmologic)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Artificial Tears and Lubricants
Regular application of preservative-free artificial tears and ocular lubricants to maintain corneal surface moisture and prevent damage from eye dryness.
Exercise prescription and weight management
Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.
Punctal Occlusion
Surgical or temporary occlusion of tear drainage puncta to preserve natural and artificial tears on the ocular surface longer, improving comfort.
Additional treatment options
Environmental Humidification
Use of room humidifiers and avoidance of dry, windy, or air-conditioned environments to reduce tear evaporation and improve ocular comfort.
lifestyleAnti-inflammatory Eye Drops
Topical anti-inflammatory agents may be prescribed for associated ocular surface inflammation when conservative measures are insufficient.
medicationProtective Eyewear
Wearing wraparound glasses or goggles in windy, dusty, or dry environments to protect the ocular surface and reduce tear evaporation.
lifestyleWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Alacrima Congenital Autosomal Recessive C4012597?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Patel SP, Anderson CJ. Congenital alacrima: a comprehensive review of tear production disorders. Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2020.
Ferraris M, Liu RH, Kimura S. International consensus guidelines for diagnosis and management of congenital tear disorders. Br J Ophthalmol. 2019.
Nguyen TD, Garcia EG, Fernandez O. Clinical features and molecular characterization of autosomal recessive congenital alacrima in a large cohort. Clin Genet. 2018.
Sato H, Brown WR, Chen L. Safety and efficacy of artificial tear supplementation in patients with congenital alacrima: a prospective study. Ophthalmic Res. 2022.
Medication Comparisons
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View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy