Epidemic dropsy is characterised by all EXCEPT –
**Core Concept**
Epidemic dropsy is a disease caused by the consumption of mustard oil contaminated with the toxin sanguinarine, which affects the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems. It is characterized by various symptoms including edema, joint pain, and cardiac issues.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The toxin sanguinarine in contaminated mustard oil binds to the cardiac muscle and vascular smooth muscle, leading to vasoconstriction and increased cardiac workload. This results in symptoms such as edema, hypertension, and cardiac failure. The disease also affects the musculoskeletal system, causing joint pain and swelling.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Edema is a characteristic symptom of epidemic dropsy, making this option incorrect.
**Option B:** Joint pain and swelling are common manifestations of the disease, ruling this option out.
**Option C:** Cardiac failure is a potential complication of epidemic dropsy, so this option is also incorrect.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The toxin sanguinarine in contaminated mustard oil can cause severe cardiac and musculoskeletal symptoms, highlighting the importance of ensuring the quality and safety of edible oils.
**Correct Answer: C. Cardiac failure is a potential complication of epidemic dropsy, so this option is also incorrect.**