What is the condition caused by Vitamin A deficiency that leads to keratinization of the conjunctiva?

Study for the NBEO Ocular Physiology Exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions to enhance your learning. Prepare effectively for your certification!

Vitamin A deficiency can lead to a condition known as Bitot's spots, which are characterized by the accumulation of keratin in the conjunctiva. This keratinization results from a lack of the necessary vitamin A that is crucial for maintaining healthy epithelial tissues, particularly in the eyes. When the conjunctiva becomes affected, it doesn't remain moist and healthy, leading to this buildup of keratinized cells that appear as foamy, white lesions on the conjunctival surface.

In contrast, conditions like pinguecula, conjunctival cysts, and pterygium are typically not associated with Vitamin A deficiency. Pinguecula is a growth on the conjunctiva related to UV exposure and aging, conjunctival cysts are fluid-filled sacs usually resulting from obstruction of the conjunctival glands, and pterygium is a growth of tissue that can invade the cornea, often linked to environmental factors such as sun exposure. These conditions do not directly involve the keratinization process that occurs due to Vitamin A deficiency, hence why Bitot's spots is the correct answer.

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