A premature infant born at 30 weeks develops hemolytic anemia at 6 weeks of age. The anemia is attributed to deficiency of a specific vitamin that functions as the principal lipid-soluble antioxidant in erythrocyte membranes. Which vitamin is most likely deficient?
- A Vitamin A
- B Vitamin D
- C Vitamin E ✓
- D Vitamin K
Correct answer: C. Vitamin E
Explanation
Premature infants have low vitamin E stores at birth due to limited placental transfer in the third trimester. Vitamin E protects erythrocyte membranes from oxidative damage. Deficiency causes hemolytic anemia, particularly in premature infants. The low stores combined with rapid growth and oxidative stress from supplements can precipitate deficiency. Vitamin K deficiency causes bleeding, not hemolytic anemia, making it a plausible distractor for a newborn question.
Reference: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 21st ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.