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Vitamin A: too much of a good thing?
Norman B Duerbeck1, David D Dowling
1Specialty Obstetrics of San Diego, San Diego, CA 92130, USA. n.duerbeck@specialtyobstetrics.com
Unlabelled:
Vitamin A has the unique distinction of being readily available over the counter, yet conferring significant toxic and teratogenic potential. Although vitamin A deficiency is relatively rare in the United States, globally it is the most common cause of blindness. The following is a review of the various forms and derivatives of vitamin A and their associations with potential adverse perinatal outcomes.
Target Audience:
Obstetricians & Gynecologists, Family Physicians.
Learning Objectives:
After participating in this CME activity, physicians should be better able to identify sources of Vitamin A, distinguish between toxic and non toxic forms of Vitamin A and counsel patients regarding the dosages of Vitamin A that are tolerable during pregnancy.
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