Some animal studies suggest that essential fatty acids may be necessary for the development of normal vision in infants. Linoleic acid deficiency may occur in infants whose formula is deficient in polyunsaturated fatty acids. Symptoms of this deficiency include dry, scaly skin followed by peeling. A puslike fluid may seep from areas around the skinfolds, especially around the anus. When long-term total parenteral nutrition doesn't include linolenic acid, neurologic complications including numbness, weakness, an inability to walk, leg pain, and blurred vision may occur along with very low blood levels of linolenic acid.
Symptoms resolve when linolenic acid is given.
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