Vitamin A deficiency presenting as night blindness during pregnancy

Ann Clin Biochem. 2003 May;40(Pt 3):292-4. doi: 10.1258/000456303321610655.

Abstract

We describe a patient with a 6-year history of pancreatic malabsorption following surgical subtotal pancreatectomy. She presented at 33 weeks of pregnancy with night blindness as a result of vitamin A deficiency. She had had two successful pregnancies 9 and 8 years previously, giving birth to a healthy baby boy on each occasion. We suggest that patients with long-term malabsorption due to intestinal or pancreatic disease should have vitamin A status checked prior to and during pregnancy so that prompt supplementation can be commenced if necessary. The possibility that vitamin A deficiency may be contributing to anaemia present in pregnancy should also be considered.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Malabsorption Syndromes / complications
  • Male
  • Night Blindness / etiology*
  • Night Blindness / prevention & control
  • Pancreatectomy*
  • Postoperative Complications*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / prevention & control*
  • Vitamin A / administration & dosage
  • Vitamin A Deficiency / etiology*
  • Vitamin A Deficiency / prevention & control

Substances

  • Vitamin A