What is one of the signs of folate deficiency?

A sign of folate deficiency is glossitis, which refers to inflammation of the tongue. This condition can manifest as a smooth, swollen, and painful tongue, and it may also change in color. The tongue may appear reddened and may have a shiny surface, which is commonly associated with deficiencies in B vitamins, including folate.

Folate is essential for DNA synthesis and cell division, and its deficiency can lead to various hematologic and mucosal symptoms. Glossitis serves as an important clinical indicator, often prompting further investigation into vitamin deficiencies, particularly among populations at risk for inadequate nutritional intake.

Other conditions, such as hypercalcemia, excessive bruising, and hypoglycemia, are not typically associated with folate deficiency. Rather, these conditions may arise from different metabolic or nutritional disorders. For instance, excessive bruising might be linked to clotting factor deficiencies or other hematological issues rather than folate specifically. Understanding these distinctions emphasizes the importance of recognizing specific signs associated with particular nutrient deficiencies, such as glossitis with folate deficiency.