Final answer:
Frank likely has a deficiency in vitamin A, as his symptoms of night blindness, dry and inflamed eyes, and rough skin are typical of this deficiency, which can occur with chronic liver conditions like cirrhosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Frank, a 70-year-old male with cirrhosis of the liver and a history of alcoholism, is presenting with symptoms that suggest a vitamin deficiency. Specifically, his difficulty seeing at night or in low light, dry and inflamed eyes, foamy, gray spots on his eyes, and dry and rough skin are indicative of a vitamin A deficiency. Cirrhosis of the liver can impair the organ's ability to store and metabolize vitamins, leading to various deficiencies.
Cirrhosis itself is the formation of fibrous tissue in the liver, which occurs due to the death of liver cells caused by conditions like viral hepatitis, chronic alcoholism, or exposure to liver-toxic chemicals. Liver function progressively deteriorates with cirrhosis, affecting the production of vital proteins and the metabolism and storage of essential nutrients, including vitamins.
Because the liver plays a crucial role in the storage of vitamin A, chronic liver issues like cirrhosis can result in diminished vitamin A levels in the body, leading to the symptoms Frank is experiencing. The vitamin is essential for maintaining good vision, skin health, and mucous membrane integrity. A deficiency in vitamin A can lead to xerophthalmia (dry and inflamed eyes), night blindness, and skin issues, all of which Frank is exhibiting.