Which vitamin deficiency leads to megaloblastic anemia?Multiple choice question.Vitamin B-12Vitamin DNiacinVitamin C

Break Down the Problem

1. Identify the characteristics of megaloblastic anemia.
2. Determine which vitamin deficiency is associated with megaloblastic anemia.

Relevant Concepts

• Megaloblastic Anemia: This condition is characterized by the presence of large, abnormal red blood cells (megaloblasts) due to impaired DNA synthesis.
• Vitamin Deficiencies:
  • Vitamin B-12 and folate (Vitamin B-9) are known to be crucial for DNA synthesis and cell division.

Analysis and Detail

1. Vitamin B-12: A deficiency in Vitamin B-12 can lead to megaloblastic anemia as it plays a key role in the formation of red blood cells.
2. Vitamin D: It is essential for calcium metabolism but is not related to the formation of red blood cells.
3. Niacin: This vitamin is involved in energy production and metabolism but does not cause megaloblastic anemia.
4. Vitamin C: Important for collagen synthesis and immune function, but not directly associated with red blood cell formation.

Verify and Summarize

Given the analysis, Vitamin B-12 deficiency is explicitly linked to megaloblastic anemia due to its critical role in DNA synthesis and red blood cell maturation.

Final Answer

Vitamin B-12 is the vitamin deficiency that leads to megaloblastic anemia.