Which is a hallmark sign of folate deficiency?

Challenge yourself with the Weakest Link Test. Engage with quiz questions, uncover hints and explanations, and prepare effectively for your exam journey. Ready to turn weaknesses into strengths?

Multiple Choice

Which is a hallmark sign of folate deficiency?

Explanation:
Folate is essential for DNA synthesis, so when it’s deficient, rapidly dividing cells in the bone marrow and mucosal tissues can’t mature properly. This leads to macrocytic, megaloblastic anemia and often a swollen, inflamed tongue (glossitis). The combination of glossitis and megaloblastic anemia is a classic, textbook presentation of folate deficiency, which is why this option is the best choice. The other signs don’t fit this pattern: petechiae point more to platelet problems, retinopathy isn’t typical of folate deficiency, and gout is unrelated to folate metabolism.

Folate is essential for DNA synthesis, so when it’s deficient, rapidly dividing cells in the bone marrow and mucosal tissues can’t mature properly. This leads to macrocytic, megaloblastic anemia and often a swollen, inflamed tongue (glossitis). The combination of glossitis and megaloblastic anemia is a classic, textbook presentation of folate deficiency, which is why this option is the best choice. The other signs don’t fit this pattern: petechiae point more to platelet problems, retinopathy isn’t typical of folate deficiency, and gout is unrelated to folate metabolism.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy