Relation O Vitamns a D, B and G to Otolaryngology

Abstract

This investigation has been undertaken to determine the effect of a deficiency in vitamins A, D, B and G on the ear, nose and throat. The methods used in the study have been a comprehensive but incomplete review of the literature and animal experimentation with clinical application of the facts learned therefrom and from my practice. The literature on vitamins1 is enormous, and contains fascinating by-paths in many subjects. All of these that do not bear directly on otolaryngology have been avoided. The practical value of animal experimentation and the clinical application of the findings are mutually dependent. REVIEW O LITERATUREVitamin A.\p=m-\Adiet deficient in vitamin A produces a metaplsia 2 in the epithelium of the nasal mucosa. This change is from the cylindric to the stratified squamous cells. It begins in a group of cells deep in the epithelium, which by enlarging and fusing with other similar foci extend toward the surface. Here they undermine the normal cylindric cells that are replaced by stratified squamous epithelia of the keratinizing type. At this time, or shortly thereafter, appear the first evidences of infection. The resulting pathologic condition is primarily from a nutritional disturbance, but subsequently is modified by inflammation. This nasal metaplasia is a prototype of that occurring in the epithelium at