Pellagra is a disease characterized by the '4 Ds': dermatitis, diarrhea, dementia, and death. It is caused by the deficiency of: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

Pellagra is a disease characterized by the '4 Ds': dermatitis, diarrhea, dementia, and death. It is caused by the deficiency of:
A. Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)
B. Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
C. Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
D. Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
Answer: Option D
Solution (By JKExamLibrary)
Pellagra is caused by a severe deficiency of Vitamin B3 (Niacin) or its precursor, the amino acid tryptophan. The classic symptoms are the '4 Ds': dermatitis (symmetrical, pigmented rash on sun-exposed skin), diarrhea, dementia (neurological symptoms), and eventually death if untreated. It is historically associated with diets heavily reliant on untreated corn (maize), which has low bioavailable niacin and tryptophan.

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Correct Answer: Option D


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