A 4-year-old child in a tribal area presents with night blindness and Bitot's spots on the conjunctiva. Which of the following is the CORRECT dose of Vitamin A for treatment?
- A 50,000 IU on day 1 only
- B 100,000 IU on day 1 only
- C 100,000 IU for children under 1 year; 200,000 IU for children 1-5 years on day 1, 2, and 14 ✓
- D 5,000 IU daily for 14 days
Correct answer: C. 100,000 IU for children under 1 year; 200,000 IU for children 1-5 years on day 1, 2, and 14
Explanation
WHO/IAP protocol for treatment of Vitamin A deficiency with xerophthalmia: age-specific oral dosing — children under 1 year receive 100,000 IU, and children 1-5 years receive 200,000 IU — given on day 1, day 2, and at 2 weeks (day 14). The 3-dose regimen ensures tissue saturation and prevents relapse. Bitot's spots represent conjunctival metaplasia and keratinization, indicating moderate vitamin A deficiency. Severe deficiency causes corneal ulceration and blindness.
Reference: Ghai Essential Pediatrics, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.