What condition is indicated by night blindness due to Vitamin A deficiency?

Prepare for USMLE Step 1 Pathology Exam with comprehensive quizzes, flashcards, and detailed explanations. Enhance your understanding and be exam-ready!

Night blindness, also known as nyctalopia, is specifically characterized by difficulty seeing in low-light conditions or at night. This condition results from a deficiency of Vitamin A, which is essential for the production of rhodopsin, a pigment in the retina that helps the eyes adjust to darkness. When vitamin A levels are insufficient, the synthesis of rhodopsin is impaired, leading to decreased vision in dimly lit environments.

The other conditions listed do not directly relate to night blindness or Vitamin A deficiency. For example, nystagmus refers to involuntary eye movements and does not specifically involve difficulty seeing in darkness. Rhabdomyolysis pertains to the breakdown of muscle tissue, which is unrelated. Photophobia is an aversion to bright light, and while it can be associated with certain conditions, it does not specifically indicate night blindness or Vitamin A deficiency.

Understanding these distinctions highlights why nyctalopia is the correct answer in the context of Vitamin A deficiency and its impact on vision in low-light situations.

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