Question

select the correct answer.
a patient has a history of poor nutrition. he has skin rashes, bleeding gums, and a cut that hasnt healed in a long time. what vitamin deficiency most likely caused these symptoms?

a. vitamin a
b. vitamin b6
c. vitamin b12
d. vitamin c
e. vitamin e

Explanation:

To determine the vitamin deficiency, we analyze the symptoms: skin rashes, bleeding gums, and slow wound healing. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is essential for collagen synthesis, immune function, and wound healing. Deficiency of vitamin C causes scurvy, which presents with bleeding gums, skin rashes, and delayed wound healing. Vitamin A is related to vision and skin integrity but not these specific symptoms. Vitamin B6 is involved in metabolism, B12 in nerve function and blood cell formation, and E as an antioxidant—none match the symptoms as closely as vitamin C.

Answer:

D. vitamin C