VITAMIN A (RETINOL) SERUM
Marquette General Health System

Clinical Utilities
Vitamin A has two natural forms: retinol (A1) and 3-dehydroretinol (A2). The predominating circulating form of Vitamin A, all-trans-retinol, is taken up by the cells of the retina. There, after an 11-cis isomerization and dehydrogenation, the compound is used to produce photosensitive pigments such as rhodopsin. The other function of Vitamin A is related to reproduction and growth. Vitamin A deficiency results in poor dark adaptation or dark blindness that can progress to keratomalacia. Overdosage of Vitamin A leads to toxicity presenting in acute poisoning with abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headaches, etc.; and in chronic overdosage with bone and joint pain, hair loss, dry lips, anorexia, hepatomegaly, etc. Vitamin A status can be assessed by measuring the fasting serum or plasma retinol levels.

CPT Codes
84590

The CPT codes provided are based on AMA guidelines
and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the
sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions
regarding coding to the payer being billed.

Reference Range

Component Information

Name		VITAMIN A (RETINOL)
Method		HPLC
CPT Code		84590
Units		ug/dL
Ref Range		38-106
Reflex Reason

Collection Notes
Use plastic vial. Protect from light: use foil wrapping or amber 
tubes. Patient should not consume alcohol for 1 day prior to 
collection. Avoid hemolysis. 

Additional Comments
Also known as Retinol.