Case Reports in Ophthalmology (Dec 2015)

Vitamin A Deficiency Presenting with ‘Itchy Eyes'

  • Matthew Hao Lee,
  • Marc G. Sarossy,
  • Ehud Zamir

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1159/000441969
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 6, no. 3
pp. 427 – 434

Abstract

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We present the case of an 88-year-old female living in metropolitan Melbourne, Australia who developed vitamin A deficiency manifesting as ‘itchy eyes' due to a bizarre dietary habit. Slit lamp examination revealed Bitot's spots and a subsequent vitamin A serum level test revealed severe deficiency. An electroretinogram showed grossly reduced a- and b-wave amplitudes consistent with generalised rod and cone dysfunction - these parameters showed marked improvement 5 months post supplementation. This case highlights the presence of vitamin A deficiency in the developed world and that a careful dietary history should be taken when assessing a patient complaining of ‘itchy eyes'. Timely diagnosis and treatment may result in dramatic resolution of symptoms and signs as well as prevention of serious morbidity.

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