Vitamin A, also called retinol, is a fat-soluble vitamin that contains retinal and retinoic acid, according to HealthVitaminsGuide.com. Vitamin A can be found in animal and plant products, but retinol is usually found in high amounts in liver, eggs, butter, cheese, fish and meat. Retinol treatment can aid in bone and tooth development; it can help with vision and skin cell production; and it may prevent infections and help in the treatment of various medical conditions.
Measles Treatment
Retinol may be used as a supportive agent when treating children with measles, according to MayoClinic.com. Children with measles may develop a vitamin A deficiency that can easily be remedied with retinol supplementation. Measles is a viral disease that can lead to serious complications such as diarrhea, pneumonia and/or encephalitis or swelling in the brain. Children with measles who are given a retinol supplement typically experience a decrease in the length and severity of the disease.
Skin Regeneration
Retinol treatment can be beneficial in regenerating aging and sun-damaged skin. Retinol can help to increase cell production in the top layer of skin. Increased skin cell production causes the skin to appear smooth, tight and resilient. In addition, retinol positively influences collagen production, because skin uses retinoic acid when it produces collagen. The Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery states that collagen is a type of protein that connects and supports bodily tissues such as skin, bone, blood vessels and cartilage. Collagen gives the skin a plump appearance, and it helps to reduce the pigmentation that comes with sun damage.
Vitamin A Supplement
People who have a vitamin A deficiency may be treated with retinol supplementation, according to MayoClinic.com. Vitamin A deficiency can occur when the body does not produce an adequate amount of vitamin A or beta-carotene. Vitamin A is necessary for vision, growth and development. A deficiency of vitamin A may cause serious complications such as night blindness, dry eye or a buildup of keratin debris in the eye. In severe cases, blindness may occur as a result of damage to the retina and cornea.
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