A 2-month-old male infant exhibits jaundice and pale stools. Which vitamin deficiency is most likely?

• A. Vitamin A
• B. Vitamin E
• C. Vitamin C
• D. Vitamin K

Answer: (B)

In the case of a 2-month-old infant presenting with jaundice and pale stools, the clinical picture suggests a potential issue with bile flow, possibly due to a biliary obstruction or liver dysfunction. Pale stools indicate a lack of bilirubin reaching the intestines, which is crucial for the normal tan color of stool.

Vitamin K plays a critical role in the synthesis of clotting factors and is dependent on bile salts for absorption in the intestines. A deficiency in bile salts can lead to poor absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, including Vitamin K. In infants, particularly those with jaundice and pale stools, a deficiency in Vitamin K could lead to coagulopathy, which may manifest as easy bruising or bleeding.

Thus, if the infant is experiencing both jaundice and pale stools, it is a strong indicator that vitamin malabsorption due to impaired bile flow is occurring, with Vitamin K deficiency being the most likely consequence in this scenario. This aligns with the overall clinical presentation and the physiological role of Vitamin K in the body.