Vitamin A blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that supports vision in dim light, a healthy immune system and the maintenance of skin and the linings of the body. It comes from liver, eggs and dairy, and from vegetables as beta-carotene. The liver stores vitamin A and releases it into the blood bound to a carrier protein.

This test measures retinol, the main circulating form. Because it is absorbed with fat, levels can fall with conditions such as coeliac disease, Crohn's disease, pancreatic problems or after weight-loss surgery. Equally, high-dose supplements and very frequent liver intake can push levels too high. The price includes the blood sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a review of your result with an Omnia practitioner and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• You follow a very restricted or unusual diet and want to check your intake is adequate.
• You have a condition that affects how you absorb fat, or you have had bariatric surgery.
• You notice difficulty seeing in low light and would like to look at possible causes with a practitioner.
• You take vitamin A or fish liver oil supplements regularly and want to check your level.
• You are planning a pregnancy and want advice on vitamin A intake, since high doses are not advised.

Understanding your result

Your report shows your retinol result against the laboratory reference range. A low level may point to low intake, poor absorption or liver disease, but it can also fall temporarily during an infection or inflammation because the carrier protein drops, so the result is read alongside how you feel and any other tests.

A high level is most often linked to supplements or a diet very rich in liver. Too much vitamin A over time can affect the liver and bones and is a particular concern in pregnancy. Any result outside the range is a prompt for a conversation with your practitioner, not a diagnosis.

Preparing for your test

Some laboratories prefer a fasting sample for vitamin A, so we will confirm whether you need to fast when you book. Please tell us about any vitamin A, multivitamin or fish liver oil supplements you take, and avoid starting new ones before the test unless advised.

If you would like a wider look at diet-related levels, our Nutritional and Digestive Health check covers several vitamins and minerals together. There is also a list of every blood test and price in Chiswick or look up markers in our biomarker A to Z.

Questions

How much is a vitamin A blood test in Chiswick?

A vitamin A blood test costs £179 at Omnia in Chiswick. The price covers your sample, analysis at an accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of the result and a GP feedback report on request.

Is vitamin A deficiency common in the UK?

It is uncommon in people eating a varied diet. It is more likely with conditions that affect fat absorption, long-term liver problems or a very limited diet, which is why the test is usually booked for a specific reason.

Can I have too much vitamin A?

Yes. Because it is stored in the liver, high intake from supplements or liver over long periods can build up. NHS advice is that people who are pregnant or planning a pregnancy avoid vitamin A supplements and liver products.

Does this test measure beta-carotene?

No. It measures retinol, the active form carried in the blood. Beta-carotene from vegetables is converted to vitamin A as the body needs it.