Diphyllobothrium latum infection is most notably associated with deficiency of which nutrient?

Diphyllobothrium latum infection is most notably associated with deficiency of which nutrient?

• A. Vitamin B12
• B. Iron
• C. Vitamin D
• D. Folic acid

Answer: (A)

Vitamin B12 deficiency is the notable consequence because Diphyllobothrium latum, a large fish tapeworm, resides in the small intestine and absorbs substantial amounts of vitamin B12 from the host. With less B12 available, hematopoiesis falters, leading to macrocytic, megaloblastic anemia and sometimes neuropathic symptoms. Iron deficiency would cause a different, typically microcytic pattern; folate deficiency can also cause macrocytosis but is not specifically linked to this parasite, and vitamin D deficiency is not associated with it. Therefore, the nutrient most notably deficient is vitamin B12.

Vitamin B12 deficiency is the notable consequence because Diphyllobothrium latum, a large fish tapeworm, resides in the small intestine and absorbs substantial amounts of vitamin B12 from the host. With less B12 available, hematopoiesis falters, leading to macrocytic, megaloblastic anemia and sometimes neuropathic symptoms. Iron deficiency would cause a different, typically microcytic pattern; folate deficiency can also cause macrocytosis but is not specifically linked to this parasite, and vitamin D deficiency is not associated with it. Therefore, the nutrient most notably deficient is vitamin B12.