Which one of the following is a protein deficiency disease?

Options

A. Kwashiorkor
B. Night blindness
C. Eczema
D. Cirrhosis

Answer

To determine which of the following is a protein deficiency disease, we will analyze each option provided:

1. **Kwashiorkor**: This is a well-known protein deficiency disease. It occurs primarily in children who do not consume enough protein in their diet. The lack of protein leads to a decrease in plasma protein levels, which causes fluid to leak out of blood vessels, resulting in swelling (edema), particularly in the abdomen. Children with Kwashiorkor often appear thin with a distended belly.

2. **Night Blindness**: This condition is not related to protein deficiency but rather is caused by a deficiency in vitamin A. Vitamin A is essential for the formation of rhodopsin, a pigment in the retina that is crucial for low-light vision. Therefore, night blindness is not a protein deficiency disease.

3. **Eczema**: Eczema is a skin condition characterized by inflammation, redness, and itching. It is not directly caused by protein deficiency but can be associated with various factors, including allergies and irritants. Thus, eczema is not a protein deficiency disease.

4. **Cirrhosis**: This is a liver disease that results from long-term damage to the liver, often due to alcohol abuse or viral infections like hepatitis. Cirrhosis is not caused by protein deficiency but rather by liver damage and dysfunction.

Based on this analysis, the correct answer is **Kwashiorkor**, as it is the only condition listed that is specifically a protein deficiency disease.

### Step-by-Step Solution:
1. Identify the options given: Kwashiorkor, night blindness, eczema, and cirrhosis.
2. Analyze each option:
- Kwashiorkor: Protein deficiency disease.
- Night blindness: Caused by vitamin A deficiency.
- Eczema: Skin condition, not directly related to protein deficiency.
- Cirrhosis: Liver disease, not caused by protein deficiency.
3. Conclude that the only protein deficiency disease among the options is **Kwashiorkor**.