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Serum or Plasma Vitamin A (Retinol) Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of vitamin A (a fat-soluble vitamin essential for vision, immune function, and cell growth) in your blood.

Quick summary

["Vitamin A helps maintain healthy vision and supports immune health; low levels may indicate deficiency or underlying health concerns."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
95701-9
Short code
RRV IgA Spec Ql IA
Synonyms
RRV IgA Spec Ql IA
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
CPT
82784
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of vitamin A deficiency, such as night blindness, dry skin, or frequent infections, or if you have conditions like malabsorption (e.g., celiac disease, Crohn’s disease), liver disease, or certain medications that may affect vitamin A levels.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the blood draw if your test is part of a metabolic panel, but this is not always required for vitamin A alone. Bring any medications you’re taking to your appointment.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is sent to a lab for measurement using a sensitive immunoassay or enzymatic method to detect vitamin A levels.

What Are Results and Interpretation?

Results are compared to reference ranges for healthy adults, though exact values can vary by lab. Low levels may signal deficiency, while very high levels could indicate liver disease or certain medications. Your provider will discuss results in the context of your health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Low vitamin A levels can weaken immune function, impair vision (especially in children), and increase susceptibility to infections. Chronic deficiency may also affect growth and reproduction. High levels may indicate liver disease, obesity, or certain genetic disorders. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.

Short name

Vitamin A Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes low vitamin A levels?
Low vitamin A levels can result from poor diet (lack of liver, eggs, or fortified foods), malabsorption issues (e.g., celiac disease, pancreatic insufficiency), liver disease, or certain medications that interfere with vitamin A metabolism.
What symptoms might I experience if my vitamin A level is low?
Symptoms of low vitamin A may include night blindness, dry or scaly skin, frequent infections, or weakened immune responses. Some children may experience stunted growth. Symptoms are not always present in early stages.
How is vitamin A deficiency treated?
Treatment typically involves dietary changes (e.g., eating more liver, carrots, or fortified foods) or vitamin A supplements under medical supervision. Severe deficiency may require higher doses or intravenous treatment, depending on your provider’s assessment.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

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.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy