The clinical sign of Riboflavin deficiency is

Appeared in: NHM UP Staff Nurse-2021 Shift-1st

Explanation

Angular stomatitis, characterized by inflammation, sores, and fissures at the corners of the mouth, is a hallmark clinical sign of riboflavin (Vitamin B2) deficiency.
This condition is a key feature of ariboflavinosis, the disease caused by a lack of riboflavin.
Other signs of ariboflavinosis include glossitis (magenta tongue) and cheilosis (cracked lips), all affecting the mucocutaneous surfaces of the mouth.

Option B: Keratitis is the inflammation of the cornea. While riboflavin deficiency can cause eye-related issues like corneal vascularization, it is not as specific or classic a sign as angular stomatitis.
Option C: Pellagra is caused by a deficiency of Niacin (Vitamin B3), not Riboflavin (Vitamin B2).
Option D: Rickets is a bone disorder caused by a deficiency of Vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate, primarily affecting children.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Clinical manifestations of vitamin deficiencies helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
Nurses play a crucial role in nutritional assessment and can be the first to spot signs of deficiencies like angular stomatitis during routine patient care.
Identifying such signs prompts further investigation into the patient's diet and overall health, allowing for early intervention with dietary changes or supplementation.
Patient education is key. Nurses can teach patients and families about the importance of a balanced diet rich in B vitamins (found in milk, eggs, enriched cereals, and green vegetables) to prevent deficiencies.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question, which is asking for a specific clinical sign linked to 'Riboflavin deficiency'.
This is a factual recall question. Access your knowledge base about major vitamins and their corresponding deficiency diseases/signs.
Evaluate each option against your knowledge of Riboflavin (Vitamin B2).
Option A, Angular stomatitis, is a well-known oral lesion associated with B vitamin deficiencies, particularly B2.
Option B, Keratitis, is less specific. While eye problems can occur, they are not the most characteristic sign.
Option C, Pellagra, is the classic disease for Niacin (B3) deficiency.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 1 p. 506-508

E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 2 p. 512-514

Practise the full NHM UP Staff Nurse-2021 Shift-1st

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.