Friday, February, 10, 2012

Beta-carotene

Table of Contents

Alternative Names

Carotene test


Normal Values

The normal range is 50 to 300 micrograms per deciliter.

Note: Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.


What abnormal results mean

Increased levels may be due to:

  • Hypervitaminosis A

Lower than normal levels may be due to:

  • A problem with intestinal absorption of fat-soluble substances
  • A diet inadequate in beta-carotene, leading to vitamin A deficiency

Signs of vitamin A deficiency include:

  • Bone or teeth development problems
  • Dry or inflamed eyes
  • Hair loss
  • Loss of appetite
  • Recurring infections
  • Skin rashes
  • Unexplained irritability
  • Vision problems (inability to see at night)

While this test is a valuable part of the diagnosis of vitamin A deficiency, the test results must be evaluated along with other clinical findings.


Images

Review Date: 11/01/2009
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)