All of the following may be associated with scurvy except:

  1. Loss of appetite and irritability
  2. Diarrhoea and fever
  3. Tendencies and swelling in legs
  4. First symptom is altered mental status

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 4 : First symptom is altered mental status

Detailed Solution

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Correct Answer: First symptom is altered mental status
Rationale:
  • Scurvy is a condition caused by a severe deficiency of vitamin C (ascorbic acid). Vitamin C is essential for the synthesis of collagen, which is a vital component of connective tissues in the body.
  • Altered mental status is not typically the first symptom of scurvy. The early signs and symptoms of scurvy usually involve physical manifestations rather than mental status changes.
Explanation of Other Options:
Loss of appetite and irritability
  • Rationale: Loss of appetite and irritability are among the early symptoms of scurvy. These symptoms occur due to the body's response to a deficiency in vitamin C, which is crucial for various metabolic processes.
Diarrhoea and fever
  • Rationale: Diarrhea and fever can also be associated with scurvy, although they are less common symptoms. They can occur as a result of the body's compromised immune function due to vitamin C deficiency.
Tendencies and swelling in legs
  • Rationale: Tendencies to bruise easily and swelling in the legs (edema) are classic symptoms of scurvy. These symptoms occur because vitamin C is vital for blood vessel integrity and the synthesis of collagen, which helps maintain the structure of blood vessels and tissues.
Conclusion:
  • Among the given options, "first symptom is altered mental status" is not typically associated with the early presentation of scurvy. The initial symptoms of scurvy usually involve physical changes such as loss of appetite, irritability, easy bruising, and swelling in the legs due to the body's inability to produce sufficient collagen without adequate vitamin C.
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