Question

A child was bought with pedal edema and cheilosis. Cardiomegaly was present. What is the vitamin deficiency associated with this clinical presentation?

• A. Riboflavin
• B. Thiamine
• C. Pyridoxine
• D. Niacin

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

To determine the vitamin deficiency associated with the clinical presentation of a child displaying pedal edema, cheilosis, and cardiomegaly, we need to examine the roles and deficiency symptoms of the vitamins provided in the options: Riboflavin, Thiamine, Pyridoxine, and Niacin.

• Riboflavin (Vitamin B2): Its deficiency commonly leads to cheilosis, glossitis, and angular stomatitis, but it is not typically associated with cardiomegaly or pedal edema.
• Thiamine (Vitamin B1): A deficiency in thiamine can lead to Beriberi, which is characterized by cardiovascular symptoms such as cardiomegaly and peripheral edema (Wet Beriberi). Neurological symptoms are seen in Dry Beriberi. Thus, cardiomegaly and edema suggest a thiamine deficiency.
• Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6): A deficiency may cause peripheral neuropathy and seizures but not specifically cardiomegaly or cheilosis.
• Niacin (Vitamin B3): Its deficiency results in Pellagra, characterized by dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia, rather than cardiomegaly or pedal edema.

Given the symptoms of pedal edema, cheilosis, and cardiomegaly, the most aligned vitamin deficiency is Thiamine. This deficiency leads to Wet Beriberi, which includes cardiovascular complications such as cardiomegaly and edema, in alignment with the clinical presentation described.