Question
The bony deformity of ‘pigeon chest’ in children occurs due to deficiency of:
| A. |
Vitamin A |
| B. |
Vitamin D |
| C. |
Vitamin E |
| D. |
Vitamin K |
|
Correct Answer � B Explanation |
 |
Pigeon chest (pectus carinatum) is a bony thoracic deformity where the sternum protrudes forward, resembling a pigeon’s chest. This is a classic skeletal manifestation of rickets, caused by Vitamin D deficiency in growing children.
Vitamin D is crucial for calcium & phosphate absorption in the intestine. Deficiency → impaired bone mineralization → soft, pliable bones. In the chest wall, weakened costochondral junctions lead to the ribs being pulled outward, causing the sternum to protrude—resulting in pigeon chest.
Other Skeletal Signs of Rickets (Vitamin D Deficiency):
– Craniotabes: Soft skull bones
– Frontal bossing: Prominent forehead
– Rachitic rosary: Bead-like costochondral junctions
– Harrison’s sulcus: Groove at diaphragm attachment
– Bowing of legs, knock knees
– Delayed fontanelle closure & dentition
Incorrect Options:
– Vitamin A: Involved in vision & epithelial health; deficiency → xerophthalmia.
– Vitamin E: Antioxidant; deficiency → neurological issues, not skeletal.
– Vitamin K: Necessary for coagulation; deficiency → bleeding disorders.