Pellagra is associated with a deficiency of which vitamin?

Pellagra is specifically associated with a deficiency of niacin, also known as vitamin B3. This condition is characterized by the three "D's": dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia, which are the clinical manifestations of severe niacin deficiency.

Niacin plays a critical role in the body by aiding in the conversion of food into energy and is essential for the proper functioning of the digestive system, skin, and nervous system. A lack of this vitamin leads to disruptions in these processes, resulting in the symptoms observed in pellagra.

While other vitamins listed, such as vitamin A, vitamin B12, and vitamin C, are important for various bodily functions, they do not directly correlate with the condition of pellagra. Each of these vitamins has distinct deficiency-related conditions, but niacin is uniquely tied to pellagra, making this choice the only correct answer in this context. Understanding the specific roles of each vitamin can provide clarity on why niacin is crucial for preventing pellagra.