Vitamin a deficiency disorders
McLaren, D.S.
Journal of the Indian Medical Association 97(8): 320-323
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0019-5847 PMID: 10643184 Document Number: 503680
This article focuses on xerophthalmia, caused by vitamin A deficiency, which is the major cause of blindness among children worldwide. The term "vitamin A deficiency disorders" (VADD) has been introduced to cover the whole clinical spectrum of disease. The global prevalence of VADD is now well documented and WHO has evidence that the number of young children suffering from subclinical vitamin A deficiency is steadily increasing. Moreover, the pathogenesis of the disease is still imperfectly understood. It is not clear why certain subjects in vulnerable communities develop xerophthalmia, while the majority are spared. Oral preparations of vitamin A are well absorbed and utilized in even severely malnourished patients. A schedule of treatment is given to serve as a guide in the full treatment process. Control of VADD involves a massive dose supplementation, fortification of common foodstuffs with vitamin A, immunization, and dietary improvement. However, each of these methods has drawbacks and advantages.