What symptom is associated with dry skin as a consequence of a deficiency?

Dry skin is a common symptom associated with a deficiency of vitamin A. This vitamin plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and functioning of skin cells. It is essential for skin health because it helps to promote cell production and turnover, which is necessary for maintaining a moist and healthy skin barrier. When there is a lack of vitamin A in the diet, the skin may become dry, rough, and even scaly due to impaired cell differentiation and proliferation.

In contrast, while deficiencies in vitamin C, calcium, or iron can cause various health issues, they typically do not present as dry skin. Vitamin C is more closely associated with scurvy, which involves symptoms like bruising and bleeding, while calcium deficiency primarily leads to bone health issues, such as osteoporosis. Iron deficiency is mostly recognized for causing anemia, characterized by fatigue and weakness rather than changes in skin texture or moisture. Thus, vitamin A deficiency stands out as the most relevant cause for dry skin symptoms.