What deficiency is associated with hereditary telegnastia?

• A. Vitamin B12 deficiency
• B. Iron deficiency
• C. Low RBC count
• D. Calcium deficiency

Answer: (B)

Hereditary telangiectasia, also known as Osler-Weber-Rendu syndrome, is predominantly characterized by the presence of multiple telangiectasias and arteriovenous malformations, leading to recurrent bleeding, particularly from mucosal surfaces. The association with iron deficiency arises from chronic blood loss due to these vascular malformations. As patients may experience significant bleeding episodes, they can develop iron deficiency anemia as their iron stores are depleted more rapidly than they can be replenished.

In this context, while vitamin B12 deficiency, low red blood cell count, and calcium deficiency can contribute to various health issues, they do not have a direct connection to the specific pathology and bleeding complications seen in hereditary telangiectasia. Thus, iron deficiency stands out as the relevant deficiency commonly associated with this condition due to its relationship with recurrent hemorrhage and subsequent anemia.