Free AAMA Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) Practice Question

The patient’s symptoms of night blindness and dry, scaly skin are classic signs of Vitamin A deficiency. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining healthy vision, skin, and mucous membranes. A diet lacking in fruits and vegetables can lead to this deficiency, as these foods are primary sources of Vitamin A and beta-carotene, which the body converts into the vitamin. It is crucial for medical assistants to recognize these symptoms and understand their association with diet to provide proper nutritional guidance and care.

Vitamin D deficiency typically presents with symptoms related to bone health such as rickets in children or osteomalacia in adults due to its role in calcium absorption. Vitamin E deficiency is rare but may cause neuromuscular problems such as ataxia or muscle weakness. Vitamin C deficiency is known for causing scurvy, which includes symptoms like bleeding gums, weakness, and bruising, not night blindness or skin issues.