Fluorosis in India is related to high fluoride in drinking water. The WHO and BIS permissible limit for fluoride in drinking water is 1.0–1.5 mg/L. Excess fluoride in water PRIMARILY damages which of the following tissues in adults?
- A Renal tubules and glomeruli
- B Dental enamel and skeletal bone (with ligament calcification in severe cases) ✓
- C Peripheral nerve myelin
- D Hepatic parenchyma
Correct answer: B. Dental enamel and skeletal bone (with ligament calcification in severe cases)
Explanation
Fluoride toxicity follows a dose-dependent spectrum: at 1–2 mg/L, dental fluorosis (mottling of enamel during tooth development); at 3–6 mg/L, osteosclerosis (increased bone density); at >6 mg/L in chronic exposure, skeletal fluorosis with crippling osteosclerosis and calcification of interosseous membranes, tendons, and ligaments (leading to 'poker back' and genu valgum). Fluoride accumulates in hydroxyapatite crystal lattice. Kidney, nerve, and liver damage are not the primary targets of fluorosis.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.