A 40-year-old chronic alcoholic presents with angular stomatitis, glossitis, seborrheic dermatitis, and corneal vascularization. Which vitamin deficiency best explains these findings?
- A Riboflavin (B2) ✓
- B Niacin (B3)
- C Pyridoxine (B6)
- D Cobalamin (B12)
Correct answer: A. Riboflavin (B2)
Explanation
Riboflavin deficiency classically produces the oral-ocular-genital syndrome: angular stomatitis, glossitis, seborrheic dermatitis, and corneal vascularization. Riboflavin is the precursor for FAD and FMN, essential cofactors in flavoprotein oxidoreductases. Niacin deficiency causes pellagra (dementia, diarrhea, dermatitis) without the characteristic oral-ocular findings. B6 deficiency causes peripheral neuropathy and seizures. B12 deficiency causes megaloblastic anemia and subacute combined degeneration.
Reference: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 21st ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.