Folic acid deficiency may present with which features?

Folic acid deficiency may present with which features?

• A. Microcytosis with brittle nails
• B. Skin roughness and atrophic glossitis
• C. Jaundice and hepatomegaly
• D. Petechiae and ecchymoses

Answer: (B)

Folic acid deficiency disrupts DNA synthesis in rapidly dividing cells, leading to macrocytic megaloblastic anemia and mucosal changes. The tongue often becomes smooth, red, and inflamed (atrophic glossitis), and mucocutaneous changes such as rough skin can accompany this deficiency. This combination—mucosal alteration with glossitis—is a classic sign of folate deficiency, making it the best match for the presented features. In contrast, microcytosis with brittle nails suggests iron deficiency; jaundice and hepatomegaly point to liver-related issues or hemolysis; petechiae and ecchymoses indicate platelet or clotting problems.

Folic acid deficiency disrupts DNA synthesis in rapidly dividing cells, leading to macrocytic megaloblastic anemia and mucosal changes. The tongue often becomes smooth, red, and inflamed (atrophic glossitis), and mucocutaneous changes such as rough skin can accompany this deficiency. This combination—mucosal alteration with glossitis—is a classic sign of folate deficiency, making it the best match for the presented features. In contrast, microcytosis with brittle nails suggests iron deficiency; jaundice and hepatomegaly point to liver-related issues or hemolysis; petechiae and ecchymoses indicate platelet or clotting problems.