Definition:
Carotenemia is a condition of excess beta-carotene in one's blood. It's common and generally harmless in infants, usually appearing when they start eating solids. Ingestion of too much beta-carotene containing foods, deposits the carotene in one's skin adding yellow color to it. While the condition is not dangerous, it may lead to mistaken analysis of jaundice.
Diagnosis:
Carotenemia may be diagnosed through simple observation, as well as examination of the skin. Clinical diagnostic methods also help identify the condition. With carotenemia diagnosis, it's vital to consider whether an underlying condition is causing carotenemia.
Treatment:
Common treatments for Carotenemia include avoiding or reducing foods that contain beta-carotene, like fish oils, carrot, pumpkin, sweet potato, vitamin A, etc. Watchful waiting is important, as the condition typically subsides after the elimination of carotenemia-causing foods. Always ask for medical advice from professional healthcare providers about any type of treatment for carotenemia, or even when changing treatment plans.
Symptoms and Signs:
There are three common symptoms of carotenemia; orange skin, yellow skin, and normal eye color, not yellowish like jaundice.
Causes:
The condition is caused by excessive intake of fruits and vegetables that are rich in carotenoid, particularly green and yellow vegetables. Excessive carotene leads to the skin's yellow discoloration.
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