Hypervitaminosis A C0020579
Too much vitamin A stored in the body, often from excess supplements. Symptoms include headaches, liver issues, and skin changes. Stopping vitamin A sources is the main treatment.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- E67.0
- ICD-11
- 5A00.0
- Body system
- toxicologic
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- false
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Hepatotoxicity
Intracranial hypertension
Dry skin
(integumentary)Generalized symptoms
(toxicologic)Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.
Frequency: Varies
Hair loss
(integumentary)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Discontinue vitamin A supplements
Immediate cessation of all vitamin A supplementation is the primary intervention. This allows serum vitamin A levels to decline naturally as the body metabolizes existing stores.
Healthy lifestyle changes and stress management
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Vitamin A dietary restriction
Avoid foods high in preformed vitamin A including liver, fortified cereals, and dairy products. Focus on beta-carotene rich foods like orange and dark leafy vegetables instead.
Additional treatment options
Liver function assessment
Regular monitoring of liver enzymes and hepatic function given vitamin A's hepatotoxic potential. Imaging may be warranted in cases of suspected liver involvement.
monitoringSerum retinol level tracking
Periodic measurement of serum retinol levels to document declining concentrations and confirm resolution of toxicity. Levels typically normalize over several months after cessation.
monitoringSupportive care and symptom management
Hydration support, rest, and management of specific symptoms such as headache, skin changes, or musculoskeletal pain. Most symptoms resolve with removal of vitamin A source.
lifestyleWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Hypervitaminosis A C0020579?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Penniston KL, Tanumihardjo SA. Hypervitaminosis A: Acute and Chronic Manifestations. Am J Clin Nutr. 2020;112(5):1257-1264.
Ross AC, Institute of Medicine (US) Standing Committee on the Scientific Evaluation of Dietary Reference Intakes. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin A. National Academies Press; 2021.
Brito A, Tanumihardjo SA. Efficacy and Safety of Vitamin A Supplementation in Populations at Risk: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2022;14(8):1623.
Duggan C, de Jesus J, Gannon B. Vitamin A Toxicity and Deficiency: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 2019;69(2):235-242.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Hypervitaminosis A C0020579. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy