Patterns of glycosaminoglycans excretions in the urine of Egyptians differing in their vitamin A status.

Fifty-two boys were tested biochemically for their vitamin A status. Only 54% were found to have acceptable Plasma retinol levels. Deficient vitamin A status was associated with reduced GAG excretions. Vitamin A therapy restored the plasma retinol levels and increased the excretion of GAG. Chondroitin sulfate made up 90%, heparan sulfate 9.5% and hyaluronic acid less than 1% of the total urinary GAG content.