Sign or Symptom
photophobia Audio
pho·to·pho·bi·a [ foh-tuh-foh-bee-uh ]
Subclass of:
Vision Disorders
Etymology:
Greek phos = light + phobos = fear
Hence any condition in which bright light causes pain.
Definitions related to photophobia:
  • A condition in which the eyes are more sensitive than normal to light.
    NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • Abnormal sensitivity to light. This may occur as a manifestation of EYE DISEASES; MIGRAINE; SUBARACHNOID HEMORRHAGE; MENINGITIS; and other disorders. Photophobia may also occur in association with DEPRESSION and other MENTAL DISORDERS.
    NLM Medical Subject Headings
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2025
  • Excessive sensitivity to light with the sensation of discomfort or pain in the eyes due to exposure to bright light.
    Human Phenotype Ontology (HPO)
    The Human Phenotype Ontology Project, 2025
  • Increased reactivity of the eye to light exposure.
    NICHD Pediatric Terminology
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • Increased sensitivity of the eyes to light, which can result in the avoidance of light exposure.
    NCI
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • Sensitivity to light, often experienced during a migraine attack.
    Harvard Dictionary of Health Terms
    Harvard Medical Publishing, 2011
  • A disorder characterized by fear and avoidance of light.
    Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events
    U.S. National Institutes of Health, 2021
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This content should not be used in place of medically-reviewed decision support reference material or professional medical advice. Some terms may have alternate or updated definitions not reflected in this set. The definitions on this page should not be considered complete or up to date.