Vitamin A in serum (retinol) (Vitamin A, Retinol, Serum)
The test determines the level of vitamin A (retinol) in blood serum - an important fat-soluble vitamin necessary for normal vision, immune system, cell growth, and health of skin and mucous membranes. The study detects vitamin A deficiency or excess, which can be associated with fat absorption disorders, liver diseases, unbalanced diet, or vitamin supplement intake.
Biomaterial: Venous blood
- Draw blood fasting
- Exclude fatty food and alcohol 24 hours before
- Avoid intense physical activity 24 hours before
Medications:
If possible, discontinue vitamin preparations and complexes 24-48 hours before
If discontinuation is not possible, indicate medications taken
- Reduced twilight vision ('night blindness')
- Dry skin and mucous membranes
- Frequent infections
- Reduced immunity
- Slowed growth in children
- Liver and GI tract diseases
- Suspected hypo- or hypervitaminosis A
Recommended for patients with vision disorders, liver/bile duct/intestinal diseases, fat absorption disorders, children with suspected vitamin A deficiency, patients taking retinol-containing vitamin complexes
Low vitamin A - deficiency - fat absorption disorder - liver or intestinal disease - increased body requirement
Normal level - sufficient vitamin A supply
Elevated level - possible with excess intake - risk of toxic effects with prolonged norm exceedance
Important: Excess vitamin A can be toxic. Dosage correction and treatment determined by physician.
