[Vitamin A, the "anti-infective" vitamin? (author's transl)]

Severe vitamin A deficiency undoubtedly leads to increased susceptibility to infection. On the one hand this is due to the mucosae being damaged by the vitamin deficiency to the extent that these natural barriers are more easily overcome by pathogens. On the other hand, however, also the general defensive condition is weakened, which is partly attributable to a decrease in lymphatic tissue. An increased supply of vitamin A may possibly intensify the production of antibodies, but a definitely positive effect on the course of infections is not established. Therefore, the characterization of vitamin A as "anti-infective" is justified to some extent only.