Question

A patient presenting with bleeding gums and easy bruisability was diagnosed with scurvy. This is due to

• A. Low calcium
• B. Defective collagen formation
• C. Inhibition of clotting factor
• D. Increased keratinization of epithelium

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The patient's symptoms of bleeding gums and easy bruisability indicate scurvy, a disorder primarily caused by a deficiency in vitamin C (ascorbic acid). Vitamin C is critical for several bodily functions, notably including the synthesis of collagen. Collagen is an essential protein that provides structure and strength to connective tissues.

The biochemical role of vitamin C involves acting as a cofactor for prolyl and lysyl hydroxylase enzymes. These enzymes are crucial in the hydroxylation of proline and lysine amino acids during collagen synthesis. This hydroxylation step is vital for stabilizing the collagen triple helix structure.

When vitamin C is deficient, collagen production is disrupted, leading to weakened vascular walls and connective tissues, which manifests clinically as bleeding gums, poor wound healing, and easy bruisability. Therefore, the correct answer is:

Defective collagen formation.