Deficiency of Vitamin A results in

The correct answer is night blindness.

Key Points

• Night blindness, scientifically known as nyctalopia, is primarily caused by a deficiency of Vitamin A.
• Vitamin A is essential for the production of rhodopsin, a pigment in the retina that helps the eyes adapt to low-light conditions.
• This deficiency can lead to difficulty seeing in dim light or darkness, a hallmark symptom of night blindness.
• Vitamin A-rich foods such as carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, and fish can help prevent night blindness.
• If untreated, severe Vitamin A deficiency may lead to more serious eye conditions, including xerophthalmia and corneal ulcers.

Additional Information

• Vitamin A: It is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for vision, immune function, reproduction, and cellular communication.
• Xerophthalmia: A severe form of Vitamin A deficiency that causes dryness of the conjunctiva and cornea, potentially leading to blindness.
• Rhodopsin: A light-sensitive protein found in the rod cells of the retina, crucial for vision in low-light conditions.
• Sources of Vitamin A: Rich dietary sources include liver, dairy products, eggs, and plant-based sources like carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens.
• Global Concern: Vitamin A deficiency is a public health issue in many developing countries, particularly affecting children and pregnant women.