What is keratomalacia?

Keratomalacia is characterized by the softening of the cornea, primarily due to collagenolysis, which is the breakdown of collagen fibers that provide structural integrity to the cornea. This condition often arises from vitamin A deficiency, leading to abnormal changes in the corneal tissue, including the progressive loss of keratocytes and an increase in enzymes that degrade collagen. The softened, vulnerable cornea can become prone to further complications, including ulceration and perforation, highlighting the significance of early diagnosis and management.

In contrast, the other options refer to different pathological conditions. For instance, hardening of the cornea due to UV exposure relates to changes brought about by photokeratitis. Inflammation of the cornea due to mechanical injury addresses responses to trauma rather than tissue softening. Complete loss of corneal structure suggests a more advanced state, such as corneal necrosis or perforation, rather than the initial softening process represented by keratomalacia. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify how keratomalacia specifically involves the degradation of collagen leading to a weakened cornea.