Question
A 45-year-old woman presents complaining of progressive vision loss. The patient is healthy but recently underwent bariatric surgery. Which of the following tests would be most appropriate for this patient?
| A. |
Serum vitamin A levels |
| B. |
Rheumatoid factor |
| C. |
Thyroid levels |
| D. |
Antinuclear antibody titer |
Show Answer
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Correct Answer � A Explanation |
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Answer: A) Serum vitamin A levels
Explanation: The image shows a Bitot spot. Bitot spots are caused by vitamin A deficiency. They represent keratinization of the conjunctiva along with colonization with Corynebacterium xerosis. Vitamin A replacement is necessary to prevent the consequences of vitamin deficiency, including xerophthalmia, keratomalacia, nyctalopia, and blindness. Vitamin A deficiency mostly affects children in the developing world and may be fatal. Rheumatoid factor, thyroid levels, and antinuclear antibodies will not explain the conjunctival findings.