Vitamin A deficiency, unspecified

This code signifies a general lack of sufficient vitamin A in the body, without further specification of the type or manifestation of the deficiency. It indicates a nutritional deficiency that can impact vision, immune function, and epithelial tissue integrity.

Apply this code when documentation indicates a diagnosis of vitamin A deficiency but lacks details regarding specific clinical manifestations (e.g., xerophthalmia, night blindness). It is appropriate when laboratory tests confirm low vitamin A levels without further clinical elaboration.

• Avoid using this code if specific manifestations of vitamin A deficiency are documented; instead, use a more precise code from the E50 category.
• Ensure documentation clearly states "vitamin A deficiency" or "hypovitaminosis A" to support this code.
• Do not use this code for prophylactic vitamin A supplementation without a documented deficiency.