Keratomalacia is a serious eye condition characterized by softening and deterioration of the cornea that can lead to ulceration and permanent vision loss. It is caused by severe vitamin A deficiency, which prevents the cornea from maintaining its structural integrity. The Vitamin A (Retinol) blood test is the most important test for diagnosing this condition.
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Keratomalacia is caused by severe vitamin A deficiency, which deprives the cornea of essential nutrients needed to maintain its structure and function. When your body lacks adequate vitamin A over an extended period, the cornea begins to soften, dry out, and deteriorate. This condition is most common in areas with limited access to vitamin A-rich foods like liver, dairy products, and leafy green vegetables, though it can also occur due to malabsorption disorders that prevent proper vitamin A absorption.
The Vitamin A (Retinol) blood test is the most important test for keratomalacia because it directly measures the level of vitamin A circulating in your bloodstream and confirms the underlying nutritional deficiency causing the corneal damage. This test provides definitive evidence of vitamin A deficiency, which is the root cause of keratomalacia. Low vitamin A levels (typically below 20 mcg/dL) indicate severe deficiency and help your healthcare provider determine the appropriate dosage and duration of vitamin A supplementation needed to restore healthy corneal tissue and prevent further vision damage.
You should get tested if you notice any signs of corneal damage such as dry, cloudy, or hazy eyes, progressive vision problems, night blindness, or if you have risk factors for vitamin A deficiency. Testing is especially important if you have a diet low in vitamin A-rich foods, digestive disorders that affect nutrient absorption (like celiac disease or Crohn's disease), chronic diarrhea, or if you've recently traveled to or lived in areas where malnutrition is common. Early detection through blood testing can prevent permanent vision loss and guide effective treatment.
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What this means
Your vitamin A levels are below the optimal range, which may explain symptoms like vision difficulties, dry skin, or fatigue. While this deficiency is typically not severe, addressing it can improve your eye health, skin quality, and immune function over time.
Recommended actions
Include more vitamin A-rich foods like liver, fish, eggs, and dairy products
Eat orange and dark green vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and spinach with healthy fats
Consider a vitamin A supplement if dietary changes are difficult, but consult with a healthcare provider first
Retest in 8-12 weeks after making dietary changes to monitor improvement
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