Question

A farmer who was on maize as a staple diet develops a rash on the face, neck, and hands. Which of the following vitamins should be given in the treatment?

• A. Niacin
• B. Thiamine
• C.
• D.

Hint:

Pellagra is treated with niacin supplementation, especially in cases of malnutrition or where maize is a primary diet, as it is low in niacin.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The condition described in the question is likely Pellagra, which is characterized by symptoms such as a dermatitis rash on areas exposed to sunlight, along with other potential issues like diarrhea and dementia. Pellagra primarily results from a deficiency in Niacin, which is Vitamin B3. Niacin is crucial for various metabolic processes in the body, and its deficiency is particularly common in diets reliant on corn (maize) as a staple, as corn lacks sufficient Niacin or its precursor, tryptophan.

Given these symptoms and dietary context, the appropriate treatment for the farmer would involve the administration of Niacin. This will address the deficiency and help alleviate the symptoms of Pellagra.