eligibility criterion exclusion criterion Adapted from Clinical Research Glossary Version 4.0 CDICS glossary group PMID: 17600285-Exclusion criteria included the use of any topical ophthalmic or topical oral medication and/or history of ocular or oral surgery within the past six months. Person: Philippe Rocca-Serra an exclusion criterion (rule) is_a *eligibility criterion* which defines and states a condition which, if met, makes an entity unsuitable for a given task or participation in a given process. For instance, in a study protocol, exclusion criteria indicate the conditions that prospective subjects SHOULD NOT meet to be eligible for participation in a study exclusion rule pending final vetting