Module 8 ChatGPT Flashcards
What are vitamins
Vitamins are chemically diverse organic compounds essential for normal metabolism, often requiring dietary intake as the body cannot synthesize them sufficiently
How are vitamins classified
Vitamins are classified into fat-soluble (A, D, E, K) and water-soluble (B-complex and C) categories
What is the role of vitamins as micronutrients
Vitamins act as coenzymes, antioxidants, signaling molecules, and hormones
Which vitamins are fat-soluble
Vitamins A, D, E, and K are fat-soluble
Which vitamins are water-soluble
The B-complex vitamins and vitamin C are water-soluble
What is the main source of vitamins
A balanced diet typically provides all necessary vitamins
What are the main causes of vitamin deficiencies
Malnutrition, malabsorption disorders, or restrictive diets
What is the main function of vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is essential for RBC formation and proper myelination of the nervous system
What condition is commonly associated with vitamin B12 deficiency
Pernicious anemia, an autoimmune disorder characterized by the absence of intrinsic factor
What are the clinical features of vitamin B12 deficiency
Signs of anemia, neurological disturbances like paresthesia, spasticity, ataxia, and neuropsychiatric disorders
How is vitamin B12 deficiency diagnosed
By detecting low serum vitamin B12 levels and identifying the underlying cause with tests like the Schilling test
What is the treatment for vitamin B12 deficiency
Parenteral supplementation, with possible long-term supplementation depending on the underlying cause
What role does folate play in the body
Folate is an essential coenzyme that enables critical biochemical reactions, particularly in DNA synthesis
What causes folate deficiency
Malnutrition and excessive alcohol use
What are the clinical manifestations of folate deficiency
Megaloblastic anemia without neurological manifestations
How is folate deficiency diagnosed
Through laboratory findings like macrocytosis, hyperhomocysteinemia, and normal methylmalonic acid levels
What is the treatment for folate deficiency
Oral folate supplementation
What is Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding of the Newborn (VKDB)
Spontaneous bleeding in a newborn due to a deficiency of vitamin K-dependent coagulation factors
Why are vitamin K levels low in newborns
Vitamin K does not cross the placental barrier, is not present in breast milk, and is not synthesized in the sterile gut of a newborn
How is VKDB prevented in industrialized countries
Most newborns receive a vitamin K injection at birth
What are the categories of VKDB
Early-onset (within 24 hours after birth), classic (within 4 weeks), and late-onset (between 28 months)