A premature infant fed a formula deficient in fat-soluble vitamins develops hemolytic anemia with acanthocytes on peripheral smear and reduced deep tendon reflexes. Deficiency of which nutrient best explains these findings?
- A Alpha-tocopherol ✓
- B Retinol
- C Pyridoxine
- D Thiamine
Correct answer: A. Alpha-tocopherol
Explanation
Alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E) sits within membrane phospholipid bilayers and terminates lipid peroxidation chain reactions by donating its phenolic hydrogen to peroxyl radicals. Deficiency therefore produces hemolysis of red cells with acanthocytosis, plus posterior column and spinocerebellar tract degeneration causing areflexia and ataxia. Premature infants are at particular risk because they have limited adipose stores. Retinol deficiency causes night blindness and keratomalacia, not hemolytic anemia.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.