Mikroftalmia

Mikroftalmia is a congenital condition characterized by the abnormal smallness of one or both eyes. The term derives from the Greek words "mikros" meaning small and "ophthalmos" meaning eye. It is considered a spectrum of developmental anomalies, meaning it can range from a mild reduction in eye size to a severely underdeveloped eye that may appear as a mere nubbin. In some instances, the eyeball may be entirely absent, a condition known as anophthalmia.

This condition can occur in isolation or as part of a broader syndrome affecting other parts of the body. The exact cause of mikroftalmia is not always known, but it is thought to result from genetic mutations or disruptions in fetal development during pregnancy. Factors such as maternal infections, exposure to certain medications or toxins, and chromosomal abnormalities have been implicated.

The visual impairment associated with mikroftalmia varies greatly depending on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, vision may be significantly reduced but some sight may be present. More severe cases can result in profound vision loss or complete blindness in the affected eye. Diagnosis is typically made at birth through physical examination. Management strategies depend on the degree of visual impairment and may involve optical aids, therapeutic interventions to manage associated conditions, or, in some severe cases, cosmetic prosthetics.