Which vitamin deficiency is most likely in a person with a blocked bile duct?

Correct option is B

Correct Answer: (B) Vitamin B12

Explanation:

• A blocked bile duct can lead to impaired bile secretion, which affects the digestion and absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).
• Vitamin B12 absorption, however, is not directly affected by bile, but bile is involved in the absorption of intrinsic factor, which is necessary for B12 absorption in the ileum of the small intestine.
• Bile blockage can cause liver dysfunction and gastrointestinal issues, both of which can indirectly impair the absorption of vitamin B12 due to related digestive and metabolic disturbances.

Information Booster:

• Vitamin B12 is vital for red blood cell production, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. Deficiency can cause symptoms like pernicious anemia, nerve damage, and fatigue.
• Vitamin A, D, E, and K are fat-soluble vitamins, and while their absorption might be impacted by a bile duct blockage, Vitamin B12 deficiency is more directly linked to liver function and intrinsic factor absorption issues caused by bile-related disruptions.

Other Options:

A) Vitamin A:

• Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin, meaning its absorption is dependent on the presence of fat and bile for emulsification. A blocked bile duct can impair fat digestion and thus hinder the absorption of Vitamin A (and other fat-soluble vitamins like Vitamin D, E, and K).
• Vitamin A deficiency can cause vision problems like night blindness, but this is generally associated with problems in fat digestion and absorption.

C) Vitamin B1 (Thiamine):

• Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) is a water-soluble vitamin, and its absorption is not dependent on bile or fat digestion. Thiamine is absorbed directly in the small intestine and does not require bile for its absorption.
• A blocked bile duct is not likely to cause Vitamin B1 deficiency, as its absorption is independent of the bile system.

D) Vitamin C:

• Vitamin C is also a water-soluble vitamin and is absorbed in the small intestine. Like Vitamin B1, its absorption is not affected by bile.
• Vitamin C deficiency is unlikely to be linked to a blocked bile duct, as the absorption process does not involve bile.