Vitamin A
Vitamin A testing is utilized primarily to evaluate:
- Vitamin A deficiency: Vitamin A deficiency is associated with various adverse health effects, including impaired vision (night blindness), increased susceptibility to infections, and compromised immune function. Vitamin A testing helps diagnose deficiency, particularly in populations at risk, such as young children, pregnant women, individuals with malabsorption disorders, and those with poor dietary intake of vitamin A-rich foods.
- Assessment of nutritional status: Vitamin A testing provides information about an individual's nutritional status and dietary intake of vitamin A. Low vitamin A levels may indicate inadequate intake of vitamin A-rich foods such as liver, fish, dairy products, and orange-colored fruits and vegetables. Monitoring vitamin A levels can help identify individuals who may benefit from dietary counseling or supplementation.
- Monitoring of supplementation: Vitamin A supplementation is recommended for individuals at risk of deficiency, such as children in developing countries and pregnant or lactating women. Vitamin A testing may be used to monitor the effectiveness of supplementation interventions and ensure that vitamin A levels are maintained within the optimal range to support normal physiological functions, including vision, immune function, and growth.
- Evaluation of certain medical conditions: Vitamin A testing may be performed in individuals with conditions associated with altered vitamin A metabolism or utilization, such as liver disease, pancreatic insufficiency, cystic fibrosis, or inflammatory bowel disease. Monitoring vitamin A levels in these populations can aid in assessing nutritional status and guiding treatment strategies.
- Management of retinoid therapy: Vitamin A testing may be utilized in individuals receiving retinoid therapy for conditions such as acne, psoriasis, or certain types of cancer. Monitoring vitamin A levels helps prevent vitamin A toxicity, which can occur with high doses of retinoids, and ensures that therapeutic doses are within the safe and effective range.