Vitamin deficiencies

Question 1

Vitamin A

Answer 1

Retinol
Teratogenic - avoid in pregnancy

Question 2

Sources of vitamin A

Answer 2

Liver pates
Fish liver oil
Raw eggs

Question 3

Vitamin A - Benefits

Answer 3

Night vision
Immune system
Healthy skin

Question 4

Vitamin A deficiency - signs

Answer 4

Ocular effects
- Dry eyes
- Risk of infection

Question 5

Vitamin C

Answer 5

Ascorbic acid
Aids absorption of iron
Claimed to help improve common cold

Question 6

Sources of vitamin C

Answer 6

Oranges
Peppers
Tomatoes
Blackcurrants

Question 7

Vitamin C - benefits

Answer 7

Protects cells
Wound healing
Collagen formation

Question 8

Vitamin C - deficiency

Answer 8

Scurvy
Gingival bleeding
Petechiae

Question 9

Vitamin D

Answer 9

Calciferol
D2 = Ergocalciferol
D3 = Cholecalciferol
N + V = check plasma calcium level

Question 10

Vitamin D deficiency

Answer 10

Rickets
Osteomalacia

Question 11

Vitamin D - benefits

Answer 11

Required for dietary absorption of calcium
Maintain Ca and PO4 levels
Healthy bones + teeth

Question 12

Vitamin D - renal impairment

Answer 12

Give hydroxylated versions in severe impairment
- Alfacalcidol
- Calcitriol

Question 13

Vitamin E

Answer 13

Tocopherol
Inhibits platelet aggregation
Increased risk of bleeding with wardarin

Question 14

Vitamin E - benefits

Answer 14

Powerful antioxidant which protects free radicals
Healthy skin + eyes

Question 15

Vitamin E - sources

Answer 15

Plant oils
- Olive oil
- Nuts and seeds
- Wheat germ

Question 16

Vitamin K

Answer 16

Phytonadione = lipid soluble
Menadiol = water soluble, used in liver impairment

Question 17

Vitamin K - sources

Answer 17

Green, leafy vegetables

Question 18

Vitamin K - other

Answer 18

Given to all new born babies to prevent neonatal haemorrhage
- Give 3rd dose at 4 weeks if exclusively breastfed

Do not give with warfarin - antagonising effect