International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

A deficiency of vitamin A may lead to which condition?

1. Rickets

2. Scurvy

3. Bleeding gums

4. Blindness

The correct answer is: Blindness

The correct answer is blindness. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining healthy vision, particularly in low-light conditions. A deficiency of vitamin A can lead to a condition known as xerophthalmia, which is characterized by severe dryness of the conjunctiva and cornea. This deficiency can progress to more serious consequences, including night blindness and, if left untreated, can ultimately result in permanent blindness. While rickets and scurvy are conditions associated with deficiencies in vitamin D and vitamin C, respectively, they are not related to vitamin A deficiency. Bleeding gums is commonly associated with scurvy, which results from inadequate vitamin C intake, rather than a lack of vitamin A. Thus, blindness is the most directly associated condition with a deficiency of vitamin A, highlighting the vitamin's critical role in eye health.