Xerophthalmia and keratomalacia secondary to diet-induced vitamin A deficiency in Scottish adults

Lai, K. L., Ng, J. Y. and Srinivasan, S. (2014) Xerophthalmia and keratomalacia secondary to diet-induced vitamin A deficiency in Scottish adults. Canadian Journal of Ophthalmology = Journal canadien d'ophtalmologie, 49(1), pp. 109-112. (doi: 10.1016/j.jcjo.2013.09.003) (PMID:24513368)

Abstract

Objective: To report the ocular features, underlying systemic conditions, and management of diet-induced vitamin A deficiency in Scottish adults.

Design: Retrospective case series.

Methods: Three middle-aged white adults presented with ocular signs of xerophthalmia and keratomalacia that led to the diagnosis of previously undiagnosed vitamin A deficiency. Case 1 presented with rapidly progressing bilateral keratomalacia with corneal perforation, whereas Cases 2 and 3 presented with conjunctival and corneal xerosis.

Results: Corneal gluing was performed in Case 1. Cases 2 and 3 were treated topically with preservative-free tears, retinoic acid, and punctual plugs to optimize the ocular surface. This, combined with dietary supplementation, resulted in normalizing the ocular surface.

Conclusions: Diet-induced vitamin A deficiency can occur in middle-aged white adults. Ocular surface changes may be the presenting sign of hypovitaminosis A in the Western world. A high degree of suspicion with prompt recognition and management of the underlying dietary deficiency can lead to complete reversal of the ocular surface changes.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Srinivasan, Mr Sathish
• Authors: Lai, K. L., Ng, J. Y., and Srinivasan, S.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing
• Journal Name: Canadian Journal of Ophthalmology = Journal canadien d'ophtalmologie
• Publisher: Elsevier Inc.
• ISSN: 0008-4182
• ISSN (Online): 1715-3360