Question

A 37-year-old man presents with diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and a rash. He also complains of memory problems and depression. He states that he and his family live on a farm that produces corn. Due to recent financial problems, his diet has become more limited. He eats mainly corn products and only small amounts of fish and vegetables. He takes no vitamin supplementation, and he states that his symptoms began about 1 month ago. He began having trouble with his memory about 1 week ago. He has no significant past medical history, but he does admit to daily alcohol consumption.

His physical examination is significant for stomatitis, glossitis, and a rash over his arms and legs. His mini mental status exam score is 24.



Question
What deficiency does this patient most likely have?

1. Niacin
2. Zinc
3. Folate
4. Vitamin B12
5. Vitamin B1

Answer 1

The deficiency that this patient is most likely experiencing is Vitamin B1 (thiamine deficiency), which can manifest with diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, rash, memory problems, and depression.

Step-by-step explanation:

Based on the symptoms described, the deficiency that this patient is most likely experiencing is Vitamin B1, also known as thiamine deficiency. Thiamine deficiency is commonly seen in individuals who consume a diet mainly consisting of processed corn products and very little variety in their food choices. The patient's symptoms, including diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, rash, memory problems, and depression, align with the characteristic manifestations of thiamine deficiency. The presence of stomatitis, glossitis, and a rash over the arms and legs further support this diagnosis. Alcohol consumption can also contribute to thiamine deficiency.