Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

What deficiency is commonly associated with Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia?

1. Vitamin D deficiency

2. Iron deficiency

3. Calcium deficiency

4. Vitamin C deficiency

The correct answer is: Iron deficiency

Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT), also known as Osler-Weber-Rendu syndrome, is a genetic disorder that primarily affects blood vessels, leading to abnormalities such as telangiectasia (small dilated blood vessels) and arteriovenous malformations. One of the key clinical manifestations of HHT is recurrent bleeding, particularly from the nose (epistaxis), gastrointestinal tract, and other sites due to the fragile, abnormal blood vessels. Iron deficiency is commonly associated with HHT because the recurrent bleeding can result in significant blood loss over time. As a consequence, patients often experience iron deficiency anemia, which stems from the inability to replace lost iron due to chronic bleeding. The condition can lead to a decrease in hemoglobin levels as the body cannot compensate for the iron loss, making it vital to monitor and address iron levels in individuals with HHT to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. While deficiencies in vitamin D, calcium, or vitamin C might be relevant in different contexts, they are not typically associated with the characteristic complications of Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia. Therefore, iron deficiency stands out as the deficiency most closely tied to the clinical outcomes seen in this condition.