Eileen is a strict vegan and therefore eats no animal products.She develops an anemia that her doctor thinks is caused by a nutritional deficiency.Which of the following is the likeliest candidate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Vegans are at risk for vitamin B12 deficiency because this vitamin is found in animal products. Vitamin B12 is necessary for the production of red blood cells, and a deficiency can lead to anemia. Iron deficiency anemia is also possible in vegans if they do not carefully choose iron-rich plant foods or take supplements. However, since the question specifically mentions a nutritional deficiency and the patient is vegan, the likeliest deficiency is vitamin B12. Lack of intrinsic factor (C) can cause vitamin B12 deficiency, but this is a rare condition. Deficiencies in vitamins K and B6 (D and E, respectively) are also possible in vegans, but they are much less common than vitamin B12 deficiency.

Eileen Is a Strict Vegan and Therefore Eats No Animal