Question

(a) If a person is deficient in Vitamin B6, what is the consequence? How does this deficiency affect
amino acid metabolism?
(b) Briefly describe and explain what happens when there is a defect in phenylalanine metabolism.
(c) A patient presents with symptoms of blurred vision, tremors, and has difficulty speaking. Lab
tests reveal increased levels of ammonia and upon further questioning, you find out that he is an
alcoholic. What is wrong with this patient, and how will you as a nurse manage him?

Answer 1

vitamin b6 deficiency causes perpheral neuropathy and a pellagra-like syndrome,with seborrheic dermatitis,glossitis,and cheilosis and in adults can cause depression,confusion,electroencephalogram abnormalities,and seizures.

vitamin b6 plays an important role in the metabolism of protein,carbohydrates and fats,the production of neurotransmitters and the formation of nicotinic acid one of the central roles of this vitamin is in protein metabolism where it helps regulate the balance of amino acids in the body.

b)PKU is caused by a defect in the gene that helps create the enzyme needed to breakdown phenylalanine.without the emnzyme necessary to process phenylalanine,a dangerous buildup can develop when a person with PKU eats foods that contain protein or eats aspartame,an artificial sweetener.

c)because the brain depends on blood sugar as its primary source of energy,hypoglycemia interfers with the brains ability to function properly .this can cause dizziness,headache and blurred vision and others neurologicak sympptoms hypoglycemia is most commoin in prople with diabetes.