Monthly dose of treatment of vitamin A deficiency in 10 kg child who is 2 years old is –
## **Core Concept**
Vitamin A deficiency is a significant public health problem in many developing countries, leading to night blindness, impaired immune function, and increased mortality. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends vitamin A supplementation as a preventive measure. The dosage of vitamin A for children depends on their age and weight.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is based on the WHO recommendation for the treatment of vitamin A deficiency. For children under 1 year of age, the recommended dose is 100,000 IU, and for children over 1 year of age, it is 200,000 IU. Since the child in the question is 2 years old and weighs 10 kg, the appropriate dose for treatment is 200,000 IU. This dose is given monthly to address the deficiency.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** 100,000 IU - This dose is recommended for children under 1 year of age, not for a 2-year-old child.
- **Option B:** 50,000 IU - This dose is typically used for infants 6 to 11 months old and is not sufficient for a 2-year-old child.
- **Option D:** 400,000 IU - While higher doses might be used in some cases, the standard treatment dose for a child over 1 year of age is 200,000 IU.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that vitamin A supplementation is crucial in preventing and treating vitamin A deficiency, particularly in high-risk populations. The dosing regimen is age-based: 100,000 IU for children under 1 year and 200,000 IU for those over 1 year.
## **Correct Answer:** . 200,000 IU.