Vitamin C deficiency presents with erythematous gums, glossodynia, and papillary atrophy of the tongue. Which vitamin is deficient?

Correct answer: C. Vitamin B (B12, folate — causes glossitis and mucosal atrophy)

• A. Vitamin E deficiency causes neurological symptoms — not the described oral presentation.
• B. Vitamin C deficiency (scurvy) causes hemorrhagic, swollen, erythematous gingivae — but glossodynia and papillary atrophy are MORE characteristic of B vitamin deficiencies. The combination of erythematous gums + glossodynia + papillary atrophy is the classic triad of B-complex deficiency.
• C. Correct. The triad of erythematous gums + glossodynia (burning tongue) + papillary atrophy of the tongue is CLASSIC for B vitamin deficiency (B12, folate, B2, niacin). B12/folate deficiency causes atrophic glossitis (smooth, shiny, red tongue from papillary atrophy) and burning sensation. Iron deficiency anemia produces a similar picture.
• D. Vitamin D deficiency causes bone disease (rickets/osteomalacia) and possibly delayed tooth eruption — not the described oral presentation.