Which vitamin deficiency is responsible for neonatal seizure –
**Core Concept**
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) deficiency is a rare cause of seizures in newborns, particularly those with pyridoxine-dependent epilepsy (PDE). This condition is characterized by recurrent seizures that are resistant to conventional antiepileptic medications.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Pyridoxine-dependent epilepsy is caused by a defect in the gene encoding for the pyridoxine kinase enzyme, which is necessary for the phosphorylation of vitamin B6. This enzyme defect leads to a decrease in the amount of active pyridoxal phosphate (PLP), resulting in seizures. The seizures in PDE are often resistant to conventional antiepileptic medications but respond dramatically to high doses of pyridoxine supplementation.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** Thiamine (Vitamin B1) deficiency is associated with Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, not neonatal seizures.
* **Option B:** Folic acid deficiency can cause megaloblastic anemia and neural tube defects, but it is not directly linked to neonatal seizures.
* **Option C:** Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause neurological symptoms such as numbness and weakness, but it is not typically associated with neonatal seizures.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Pyridoxine-dependent epilepsy is a rare but treatable cause of seizures in newborns, and early diagnosis and treatment with high-dose pyridoxine can significantly improve outcomes.
**Correct Answer:** C. Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) deficiency.