Deficiency of which vitamin leads to scurvy?

• A. Vitamin D deficiency
• B. Vitamin A deficiency
• C. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) deficiency
• D. Vitamin B12 deficiency

Answer: (C)

Vitamin C is essential for collagen production because it acts as a cofactor for enzymes that hydroxylate the amino acids proline and lysine in collagen chains. This hydroxylation allows proper cross-linking and the stable triple-helix structure of collagen. Without enough vitamin C, collagen synthesis is impaired, leading to fragile connective tissue. That fragility manifests as swollen, bleeding gums, perifollicular hemorrhages, easy bruising, and poor wound healing, with possible anemia and bone pain in severe cases. Historically, scurvy appeared in sailors with limited fresh food, and today it’s prevented by regular intake of vitamin C–rich foods like citrus fruits, peppers, berries, and leafy greens. Other vitamins don’t cause scurvy: vitamin D deficiency affects bone mineralization, vitamin A deficiency affects vision and mucosal health, and vitamin B12 deficiency causes anemia and neuropathy.