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USMLE · Question #519

A 73-year-old woman comes to the physician because of a 2-month history of diffuse weakness and tingling of her arms and legs. Neurologic examination shows weakness of the extensor and flexor…

The correct answer is E. Vitamin B (cyanocobalamin). See the full explanation below for the reasoning.

Question

A 73-year-old woman comes to the physician because of a 2-month history of diffuse weakness and tingling of her arms and legs. Neurologic examination shows weakness of the extensor and flexor muscles of the lower extremities. Knee and ankle deep tendon reflexes are exaggerated. Sensation to vibration and position is decreased in all extremities, but the decrease is more prominent in the lower extremities than in the upper extremities. This patient most likely has a deficiency of which of the following vitamins?

Options

  • ANiacin
  • BVitamin B
  • CVitamin B (riboflavin)
  • DVitamin B (pyridoxine)
  • EVitamin B (cyanocobalamin)

How the community answered

(41 responses)
  • A
    7% (3)
  • B
    15% (6)
  • C
    2% (1)
  • D
    5% (2)
  • E
    71% (29)

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