Q11: Anophthalmos, microphthalmos and macrophthalmos

Q11.2: Microphthalmos

While developing in the womb, many different types of tissue develop in the body. The organs and body parts develop out of the various types of tissue. If tissue fails to develop properly, defects can occur.

The eye may be smaller for various reasons. These include harmful influences during pregnancy, such as certain medications or viruses. A vitamin A deficiency or exposure to radiation during pregnancy may cause it. A smaller eye can also be hereditary or occur in connection with other disorders. When the eye is smaller than normal, vision may be restricted, or non-existent, in the eye affected.