American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

Question: 1 / 650

Which deficiency is associated with glossitis and peripheral neuropathy?

Thiamine deficiency

Pyridoxine deficiency

The correct answer is pyridoxine deficiency, which is linked to symptoms such as glossitis and peripheral neuropathy. Pyridoxine, or vitamin B6, plays a crucial role in the metabolism of amino acids and the synthesis of neurotransmitters, making it vital for maintaining nerve function and overall oral health. Insufficient levels can lead to inflammation of the tongue (glossitis) and nerve-related issues, which can cause peripheral neuropathy.

Understanding the importance of pyridoxine helps clarify its physiological role. Inadequate intake of this vitamin can therefore result in the specific symptoms associated with its deficiency, including changes in the mucous membranes of the mouth and abnormal sensations or pain in the limbs characteristic of neuropathy.

Other deficiencies, such as thiamine, cobalamin, and zinc, also have their own distinct symptoms, but they do not typically present with both glossitis and peripheral neuropathy as seen with pyridoxine deficiency.

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Cobalamin deficiency

Zinc deficiency

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