A breast-fed infant began to vomit frequently and lost weight. Several days later infant developed jaundice, hepatomegaly. bilateral cataract. What is possible cause for these symptoms?
**Core Concept**
Phylloquinone (Vitamin K) deficiency can lead to bleeding disorders, but another vitamin deficiency is more likely to cause the symptoms described in the infant, including jaundice, hepatomegaly, and bilateral cataracts. The key concept here is the connection between a specific nutritional deficiency and its effects on multiple organ systems.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The infant's symptoms suggest a deficiency in fat-soluble vitamin A, which is essential for vision, immune function, and epithelial health. The liver stores vitamin A, and a deficiency can lead to jaundice and hepatomegaly. Moreover, vitamin A is crucial for the development and maintenance of the retina, and a deficiency can cause bilateral cataracts. The infant's diet, which consists of breast milk, may not provide sufficient amounts of vitamin A, especially if the mother's diet is inadequate.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is not provided.
* **Option B:** While vitamin C deficiency can cause scurvy, which includes some symptoms like poor wound healing and bleeding gums, it does not typically cause jaundice, hepatomegaly, or bilateral cataracts.
* **Option C:** Vitamin K deficiency is more likely to cause bleeding disorders, such as easy bruising or nosebleeds, rather than the symptoms described.
* **Option D:** This option is not provided.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Infants who are breastfed and exclusively formula-fed are at risk for vitamin A deficiency if their mothers or caregivers do not consume adequate amounts of this essential nutrient.
**Correct Answer:** B.