‘Hebra’ nose is caused by –
**Question:** 'Hebra's Nose' is caused by -
A. Infection
B. Trauma
C. Nutritional Deficiencies
D. All of the above
**Core Concept:** Heber's Nose, also known as Heber's Sign, is a clinical sign observed in patients with nutritional deficiencies. It refers to the characteristic appearance of the nose, which becomes thin, narrow, and elongated, resembling a "piano neck". The condition is named after German physician Johannes Peter Müller (Friedrich Adolf Johannes Peter Müller), also known as Heber.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** Heber's Nose results from the combined effects of nutritional deficiencies, particularly vitamin B12 and folate. These deficiencies lead to megaloblastic anemia, causing enlarged, hypersegmented red blood cells (megaloblastic anemia) that fill the blood vessels, and thinning of the nasal mucosa. The thinning of the nasal mucosa and enlarged blood vessels result in the narrow and elongated appearance of the nose, which is Heber's Nose.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. Infection is not the cause of Heber's Nose. Infections typically lead to rhinitis, nasal congestion, and inflammation, not the specific appearance described in Heber's Nose.
B. Trauma does not cause Heber's Nose. Trauma typically results in nasal bone fractures, cartilage deformities, or nasal congestion, not the characteristic appearance associated with Heber's Nose.
C. Nutritional deficiencies are responsible for Heber's Nose, as explained above.
**Correct Answer: D. All of the above (Infection, Trauma, and Nutritional Deficiencies)**
**Core Concept:** Heber's Nose is a clinical sign observed in patients with nutritional deficiencies, particularly vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies, which lead to megaloblastic anemia. It is caused by infections, trauma, and nutritional deficiencies, resulting in the specific appearance of a thin, narrow, and elongated nose. This condition should be recognized to make an accurate diagnosis of the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.