Hypervitaminosis A

Hypervitaminosis A results from an excess of vitamin A. It usually manifests in children, and one recognised cause is administration from 13-cis retinoic acid for treatment of cancers such as neuroblastoma.

Pathology

Manifestations can differ depending on whether it is an acute or chronic excess of vitamin A. 

Acute

• pseudotumour cerebri

Chronic

• pruritus, dry skin, dry lips
• soft tissue nodules
• diffuse symmetric periostitis (scintigraphy may allow earlier detection ²)
• may cause premature fusion of ossification centers
• separation of cranial sutures
• hepatosplenomegaly
• tendinous/ligamentous calcifications

Differential diagnosis

• infantile cortical hyperostosis (Caffey's disease): for skeletal manifestations