Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin A
For the health condition: Conjunctivitis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Vitamin A plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of the ocular surface and conjunctival epithelium. There is substantial scientific evidence supporting its use in the prevention and management of conjunctival disorders, particularly in cases where deficiency is implicated. Vitamin A deficiency leads to xerophthalmia, a spectrum of ocular manifestations that include conjunctival xerosis and increased vulnerability to infections such as conjunctivitis. Studies have shown that vitamin A supplementation reduces the incidence and severity of conjunctival infections, especially in children in developing countries where deficiency is prevalent. Topical vitamin A preparations (such as retinol palmitate ointments) have been shown in clinical trials to aid in the healing of the conjunctival and corneal epithelium, and are sometimes used as adjunctive therapy in non-infectious conjunctivitis and in the management of dry eye and post-surgical ocular surface disorders. However, for acute infectious conjunctivitis in well-nourished populations, the direct therapeutic effect of vitamin A is less clear, and its primary benefit is in the context of deficiency states. Major health organizations, including the World Health Organization, recommend vitamin A supplementation to reduce ocular morbidity in populations at risk of deficiency. In summary, vitamin A's use in conjunctivitis is scientifically validated, especially in deficiency-related cases, and its role is well established in ocular surface health.

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