Vitamin A Deficiency C0042842
A nutritional deficiency where the body lacks adequate vitamin A, affecting vision and immune function. It primarily affects those with poor dietary intake. Treatment involves vitamin A supplements and improved nutrition.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- E50.0, E50.1, E50.2
- ICD-11
- 5A00.0
- Body system
- metabolic
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Fatigue or weight changes
(metabolic)Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Night blindness
(metabolic)Xerophthalmia
(metabolic)Bitot's spots
(metabolic)Skin hyperkeratosis
(metabolic)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
Exercise prescription and weight management
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Vitamin A Supplementation Therapy
High-dose vitamin A supplementation to rapidly correct deficiency and prevent complications such as night blindness.
Vitamin A-Rich Dietary Modifications
Incorporation of foods high in preformed vitamin A and provitamin A carotenoids including liver, dairy, eggs, and orange vegetables.
Additional treatment options
Nutrition Education and Counseling
Patient education on identifying vitamin A-rich foods, meal planning, and addressing barriers to adequate nutrition.
lifestyleSerum Retinol and Clinical Follow-up
Laboratory monitoring of vitamin A levels and systematic clinical evaluation for ocular and dermatological signs.
monitoringPublic Health and Community Nutrition Programs
Community-based initiatives addressing population-level vitamin A deficiency through supplementation and food fortification.
complementaryWhen 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 Vitamin A Deficiency C0042842?
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.
WHO Global Vitamin A Deficiency Initiative. Global health sector strategy for vitamins A and E 2020-2030. Int J Vitam Nutr Res. 2021.
Sommer A, Davidson FR, Bloem MW. Assessment and control of vitamin A deficiency: the programmatic approach. Ophthalmic Res. 2020.
Imdad A, Herzer K, Mayo-Wilson E, Bhutta ZA. Vitamin A supplementation for preventing morbidity and mortality in children. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2018.
Humphrey JH, Agoestina T, Wu LZ. Impact of neonatal vitamin A supplementation on infant morbidity and mortality. J Pediatr. 2019.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Vitamin A Deficiency C0042842. 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.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy