Keratomalacia C0152455
Severe dryness and softening of the cornea, often due to vitamin A deficiency. It can lead to vision loss and requires urgent nutritional and eye care.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- E50.4, H18.441, H18.442
- ICD-11
- 5A00.0
- Body system
- ophthalmologic
- Severity
- severe
- Chronic
- false
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Corneal ulceration
Generalized symptoms
(ophthalmologic)Significant symptoms that substantially affect daily functioning.
Frequency: Varies
Xerophthalmia
(ophthalmologic)Night blindness
(ophthalmologic)Photophobia
(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
Drug therapy and clinical monitoring
Active treatment with regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended.
Vitamin A Supplementation
High-dose vitamin A replacement therapy to address the underlying deficiency causing corneal drying and ulceration in keratomalacia.
Nutritional Counseling and Food Fortification
Comprehensive dietary assessment and education emphasizing vitamin A-rich foods including liver, dairy, eggs, and orange-yellow vegetables.
Additional treatment options
Ocular Antibiotics and Lubricants
Topical antibiotic preparations and preservative-free ocular lubricants to prevent secondary infections and maintain corneal moisture.
medicationCommunity Health Education
Public health education initiatives addressing nutrition, food security, and vitamin supplementation especially in at-risk populations and developing regions.
dietaryOphthalmologic Follow-up
Serial eye examinations to monitor corneal healing, prevent complications, and detect progression to xerophthalmia or blindness.
monitoringWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
See a doctor within 24 hours
Moderate to severe symptoms that may indicate worsening of this condition. Prompt medical evaluation is recommended.
Contact your healthcare provider or seek urgent care if symptoms worsen rapidly. Go to the emergency department for life-threatening symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Keratomalacia C0152455?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalMedication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Keratomalacia C0152455. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
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.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy