UPSC-CMS 2025 — Ophthalmology

Q: Of the following ocular manifestations of Vitamin A deficiency, the first sign that can be clinically seen is:

Conjunctival Xerosis. ***Conjunctival Xerosis*** - This is the **earliest clinical sign** of vitamin A deficiency in the eye, characterized by dryness of the conjunctiva. - It often progresses from a dull, lusterless appearance to the development of **Bitot's spots**. *Bitot's spots* - These are **foamy, triangular patches** of keratinized epithelium on the conjunctiva, usually temporal to the cornea. - While a prominent sign, they appear **after** the initial dryness of conjunctival xerosis. *Nyctalopia* - Also known as **night blindness**, this is a **functional symptom** rather than a visible clinical sign. - It indicates impaired vision in low light conditions due to dysfunction of the **retinal rods**, which is a consequence of vitamin A deficiency. *Corneal Xerosis* - This is a more **advanced stage** of vitamin A deficiency, where the dryness has progressed to affect the cornea. - It appears **after** conjunctival xerosis and can lead to more severe complications like corneal ulceration and keratomalacia. [Practice more Ophthalmology PYQs on OnCourse]

1 Previous Year Questions with Answers & Explanations

Questions

Of the following ocular manifestations of Vitamin A deficiency, the first sign that can be clinically seen is: