E50-E64: Other nutritional deficiencies
E50: Vitamin A deficiency
Vitamin A deficiency refers to a group of conditions resulting from insufficient intake or absorption of vitamin A. It's often caused by a diet deficient in vitamin A-rich foods, such as leafy green vegetables, carrots, and organ meats, or by conditions that disrupt the absorption of nutrients in the body. Symptoms can vary and often include vision problems, especially in low light conditions, which is known as night blindness. Over time, the deficiency can lead to a series of eye conditions such as cornea drying (xerophthalmia) or cornea softening (keratomalacia), potentially leading to blindness. Additionally, the deficiency can affect the immune system leading to an increased susceptibility to infections. Systematically, it can impact numerous body processes due to the important roles of vitamin A in the body, including growth, development, and maintenance of the skin and mucous membranes.
Subcodes of E50:
- E50.0: Vitamin A deficiency with conjunctival xerosis
- E50.1: Vitamin A deficiency with Bitot spot and conjunctival xerosis
- E50.2: Vitamin A deficiency with corneal xerosis
- E50.3: Vitamin A deficiency with corneal ulceration and xerosis
- E50.4: Vitamin A deficiency with keratomalacia
- E50.5: Vitamin A deficiency with night blindness
- E50.6: Vitamin A deficiency with xerophthalmic scars of cornea
- E50.7: Other ocular manifestations of vitamin A deficiency
- E50.8: Other manifestations of vitamin A deficiency
- E50.9: Vitamin A deficiency, unspecified
Patient Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not intended for self-diagnosis and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health.
If you see an ICD diagnosis code (e.g., on a medical report), be aware that doctors may also include additional indicators to express diagnostic certainty. Only a healthcare professional can interpret these codes accurately in the context of your individual case.
For a complete understanding of your condition and what the diagnosis means for you, please speak directly with your doctor.