Vitamin A

Vitamin A is critical for vision, growth, and many cell functions. High concentrations of Vitamin A are seen with renal failure, but this is not associated with toxicity and excessive ingestion. High concentrations are associated with bone fractures. Low concentrations of Vitamin A are consistent with fat malabsorption.

Vitamin A, also known as Retinol, is one of the essential vitamins required for healthy growth. Vitamin A is especially important for the normal development and maintenance of healthy vision, skin growth and integrity, bone formation and immune system function. Since there is no process to produce vitamin A in the body, all vitamin A is from dietary sources, like meats and vegetables. This test is mainly used to help diagnose vitamin A deficiency in people who have signs and symptoms which are suggestive of it. Damage to the liver can also affect the use of Vitamin A, and therefore, people with liver cirrhosis or alcoholic liver disease can also be deficient of Vitamin A.

This test is performed in following conditions such as:

• Night blindness
• Ulcers on the cornea
• Repeated infections
• Dry eyes, skin, and hair
• Skin thickening and lesions
• Anemia
• Alcohol abuse
• Liver disease

Also Known As: Retinol