Vitamin C Deficiency — NDEB AFK MCQ

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EasyBiomedical SciencesVitamin C DeficiencyNDEB AFK

Which vitamin deficiency causes impaired collagen synthesis and is associated with gingival haemorrhage, delayed wound healing, and tooth mobility?

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Correct answer: B — Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an essential cofactor for prolyl hydroxylase and lysyl hydroxylase, enzymes required for collagen cross-linking. Deficiency (scurvy) results in defective collagen synthesis manifesting as gingival swelling and haemorrhage, poor wound healing, tooth mobility (due to defective PDL and alveolar bone), petechiae, and anaemia. Vitamin K deficiency causes coagulation defects but not collagen synthesis impairment.

Reference: Kumar – Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed., 2021