What is a major outcome of keratomalacia?

Keratomalacia primarily refers to the softening and ulceration of the cornea, typically due to severe vitamin A deficiency, which is crucial for maintaining epithelial health and integrity. When keratomalacia occurs, the corneal tissue begins to lose its structural integrity, leading to a softening effect. This condition can result in corneal perforation and further complications if not addressed promptly.

The other options represent conditions or outcomes that do not align with keratomalacia. Corneal thickening is often associated with other conditions such as chronic inflammation or edema rather than the softening process seen in keratomalacia. Improved vision is unlikely because keratomalacia typically leads to diminished vision due to corneal opacity and degeneration. A decrease in corneal sensitivity could occur due to damage to corneal nerves, but this is not a defining or major outcome of keratomalacia itself. Thus, the significant characteristic of keratomalacia is indeed the softening of the cornea.