What is the dosage of retinol palmitate for early stages of xerophthalmia: September 2011
**Core Concept**
Xerophthalmia is a severe form of vitamin A deficiency leading to dryness of the conjunctiva and cornea. Early intervention with retinol palmitate is critical to prevent progression to blindness. The recommended dosage in early stages is based on WHO guidelines for vitamin A supplementation in deficient individuals.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The recommended dose of retinol palmitate for early xerophthalmia is **110 mg orally on two successive days**. This dose is specifically designed to correct vitamin A deficiency rapidly while minimizing toxicity. It is derived from WHO and Indian Public Health Guidelines, which emphasize two-day administration to ensure adequate absorption and utilization in the body, particularly in children and pregnant women at risk.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
Option A: 90 mg is too low and may not adequately correct deficiency, leading to poor clinical outcomes.
Option B: 100 mg is insufficient to achieve therapeutic levels in early stages.
Option D: 120 mg exceeds the recommended dose and increases risk of toxicity such as hepatotoxicity or hypervitaminosis A.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In vitamin A deficiency, early treatment with **110 mg retinol palmitate over two days** is the standard in public health programs—this is the only dose proven to prevent progression to blindness without adverse effects. Always administer with food to enhance absorption.
✓ Correct Answer: C. 110 mg orally on two successive days