Cheilosis is caused by the deficiency of :

Question

Accepted Answer

Cheilosis, also known as angular cheilitis, is a condition characterized by inflammation and cracking at the corners of the mouth. It is primarily caused by a deficiency of riboflavin, also known as vitamin B_2. Here is a detailed explanation supporting why Option 2 is the correct answer:

1. **Justification for Option 2 (Riboflavin - B_2):**
   - Riboflavin is an essential vitamin that plays a crucial role in energy production and the metabolism of fats, drugs, and steroids. It is also vital for maintaining healthy skin and mucous membranes.
   - A deficiency in riboflavin can lead to various symptoms, including cheilosis, glossitis (inflammation of the tongue), and dermatitis. The specific role of riboflavin in maintaining the integrity of the skin and mucous membranes explains why its deficiency leads to cheilosis.
   - Riboflavin deficiency is often associated with poor dietary intake, malabsorption syndromes, or increased demand during periods of growth or pregnancy.

2. **Explanation for why other options are incorrect:**

- **Option 1 (Thiamine - B_1):**
     - Thiamine is another B vitamin that is crucial for carbohydrate metabolism and neural function. A deficiency in thiamine leads to conditions such as beriberi and Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, which primarily affect the nervous and cardiovascular systems. Thiamine deficiency does not typically cause cheilosis.

- **Option 3 (Niacin - B_3):**
     - Niacin is important for DNA repair and the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. A deficiency in niacin leads to pellagra, which is characterized by dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia. While pellagra can cause skin issues, it does not specifically cause cheilosis.

- **Option 4 (Vitamin K):**
     - Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone metabolism. A deficiency in vitamin K can lead to bleeding disorders due to impaired clotting, but it is not associated with cheilosis or other skin-related symptoms.

In conclusion, riboflavin (B_2) deficiency is directly linked to the development of cheilosis, making Option 2 the correct answer. The other options, while important for various bodily functions, do not cause cheilosis when deficient.