Deficiency of Copper causes
**Core Concept**
Copper is an essential trace element required for various enzymatic reactions, including the synthesis of hemocyanin, a protein involved in oxygen transport in invertebrates, and the production of connective tissue components like collagen and elastin. Its deficiency can lead to impaired connective tissue integrity and other systemic effects.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the role of copper in the synthesis of ceruloplasmin, a ferroxidase enzyme that helps in the oxidation of iron to its ferric state, which is essential for its incorporation into hemoglobin. Copper deficiency impairs this process, leading to reduced iron incorporation and subsequent decreased hemoglobin synthesis, resulting in anemia. Additionally, copper deficiency affects the integrity of connective tissue, leading to symptoms like poor wound healing and fragile blood vessels.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because copper deficiency does not directly cause anemia of chronic disease, which is typically associated with chronic inflammation and iron sequestration.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because while copper deficiency can lead to impaired connective tissue integrity, it is not the primary cause of osteoporosis, which involves a complex interplay of hormonal, genetic, and lifestyle factors.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because while copper deficiency can cause neurological symptoms, it is not the primary cause of Wilson's disease, a genetic disorder characterized by excessive copper accumulation in the body.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Copper deficiency can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic disorders like Menkes disease, excessive zinc intake (which can lead to copper imbalances), and poor dietary intake of copper-rich foods.
**Correct Answer:** B. Menkes disease is a disorder caused by a deficiency of copper.