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Beta-carotene test - Results

Alternative Names

Carotene test

Normal Values:

The normal range is 50 to 300 micrograms per deciliter.

Note: Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.

The examples above show the common measurements for results for these tests. Some laboratories use different measurements or may test different specimens.

What abnormal results mean:

Increased levels may be due to:

Hypervitaminosis A

Lower than normal levels may be due to:

A problem with intestinal absorption of fat-soluble substances
A diet inadequate in beta-carotene, leading to vitamin A deficiency

Signs of vitamin A deficiency include:

Bone or teeth development problems
Dry or inflamed eyes
Hair loss
Loss of appetite
Recurring infections
Skin rashes
Unexplained irritability
Vision problems (inability to see at night)

While this test is a valuable part of the diagnosis of vitamin A deficiency, the test results must be evaluated along with other clinical findings.

Blood test

Reviewed last on: 11/1/2009
Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Fischbach FT, ed. Manual of Laboratory & Diagnostic Tests. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2004.

Lewis JH. Liver disease caused by anesthetics, toxins, and herbal preparations. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger & Fordtran’s Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 8th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2006:chap 84.

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