The Ophthalmologist's Time Machine 39
Did carrots save Britain by giving pilots superhuman night vision?
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By
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Stephen G. Schwartz
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Christopher T. Leffler
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Andrzej Grzybowski
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June 5, 2026
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Clinical Scorecard: The Ophthalmologist's Time Machine 39
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | |
| Key Mechanisms | Vitamin A is essential for vision; beta-carotene in carrots is converted to vitamin A. |
| Target Population | |
| Care Setting | |
Key Highlights
- Carrots were promoted to mitigate blackout blindness during WWII.
- Vitamin A deficiency can lead to xerophthalmia and night blindness.
- Supplemental vitamin A treats xerophthalmia but does not enhance vision in normal subjects.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Assess for vitamin A deficiency in patients with night blindness.
Management
- Supplemental vitamin A is indicated for treating xerophthalmia.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Monitor vitamin A levels in patients at risk of deficiency.
Risks
- Excessive vitamin A intake does not improve vision in individuals without deficiency.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Individuals with vitamin A deficiency and xerophthalmia.
Dietary sources of vitamin A include liver, dairy, and eggs; carrots are less effective due to low bioavailability.
Clinical Best Practices
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