Which potential complication can result from excessive vitamin A or vitamin D supplementation in a child?

• A. Hypervitaminosis with hypercalcemia (vitamin D) or hepatic toxicity (vitamin A)
• B. Dehydration due to excess sweating
• C. Iron deficiency anemia
• D. Growth retardation

Answer: (A)

Excess intake of fat-soluble vitamins can cause toxicity because these vitamins accumulate in body tissues and aren’t readily excreted. When vitamin A is taken in too high amounts over time, it primarily harms the liver, leading to hepatic toxicity with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, irritability, and, with chronic excess, liver damage. When vitamin D is consumed in excess, it boosts calcium absorption and raises blood calcium, causing hypercalcemia. Hypercalcemia can present with dehydration (polyuria), nausea, vomiting, constipation, weakness, and, over time, kidney-related issues. Because these vitamins are stored in the body, monitoring and sticking to recommended doses is crucial. Other options described—dehydration from sweating, iron deficiency anemia, or growth retardation—are not direct toxic effects of excessive vitamin A or D supplementation.