Deficiency of which vitamin leads to glossitis?

• A. Vitamin B2
• B. Vitamin B3
• C. Vitamin B5
• D. Vitamin B7

Answer: (A)

Glossitis is a mucous membrane change that signals riboflavin deficiency. Riboflavin is needed for enzymes that drive redox reactions and maintain healthy oral tissues (it’s part of FAD and FMN). When riboflavin is lacking, the tongue and other oral mucosa become inflamed, often with a smooth, sore, sometimes reddened tongue and sometimes cracks at the corners of the mouth. This mucosal involvement is the classic clue pointing to riboflavin deficiency, more so than the other vitamins listed.

Niacin deficiency (pellagra) can include mouth symptoms but is better known for dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia. Pantothenic acid and biotin deficiencies are rare and don’t produce glossitis as a defining feature as reliably. So, the best answer is riboflavin deficiency due to its well-established association with glossitis.