Vitamin E

Deficiency of vitamin E may cause extensive neuropathy in young children and, in addition, is suspect as a possible cause of motor and sensory neuropathy in older children and in adults. One likely cause of vitamin E deficiency is intestinal malabsorption, resulting from bowel disease, pancreatic disease, or chronic cholestasis.

Vitamin E is one of the fat-soluble vitamins, also commonly known as Alpha Tocopherol. It acts as a powerful antioxidant in the body, removing free radicals which prevent damage to cells and DNA, preventing the development of cardiovascular disease and cancer. It also acts to improve and boost immune function. Foods that contain vitamin E include nut, seed and vegetable oils. This lab test measures the amount of vitamin E in the blood and can help to diagnose symptoms of neuropathy.

This test is performed in following conditions such as:

• Reduced reflexes
• Ataxia
• Muscle weakness
• Problems with visual-field
• Cardiac arrhythmias

Also Known As: Alpha Tocopherol, Vitamin E1