Ingestion of which of the following mimics scurvy in child:
**Core Concept**
Scurvy is a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in the diet. It leads to impaired collagen synthesis, connective tissue weakness, and poor wound healing. The condition is characterized by bleeding gums, joint pain, and poor appetite.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Phylloquinone (Vitamin K) is required for the gamma-carboxylation of glutamic acid residues in proteins involved in blood coagulation, such as prothrombin and clotting factors. However, unlike vitamin C, vitamin K does not play a role in collagen synthesis. Ingestion of a phylloquinone-deficient diet can lead to impaired coagulation, manifesting as bleeding gums and easy bruising, mimicking the symptoms of scurvy.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is not relevant to the question.
**Option B:** Folate deficiency leads to megaloblastic anemia and neurological symptoms, not scurvy-like symptoms.
**Option C:** Iron deficiency leads to anemia, fatigue, and weakness, but not scurvy-like symptoms.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Vitamin K is essential for the synthesis of clotting factors II, VII, IX, and X in the liver, which are necessary for proper blood coagulation.
**Correct Answer:** C. Phylloquinone (Vitamin K) deficiency can mimic scurvy in a child.