A deficiency disease which causes drying up of skin and hair is

Options

A. Pellagra
B. Beri-beri
C. Scurvy
D. Anorexia.

Answer

To solve the question regarding the deficiency disease that causes drying up of skin and hair, we need to analyze the options provided:

1. **Pellagra**: This disease is caused by a deficiency of Vitamin B3 (niacin). The primary symptoms include diarrhea, dermatitis, and dementia. Since drying up of skin and hair is not a symptom of pellagra, this option is incorrect.

2. **Beriberi**: This condition results from a deficiency of Vitamin B1 (thiamine). Symptoms of beriberi include weakness, pain in the body, and shortness of breath. Again, this does not relate to drying up of skin and hair, making this option incorrect as well.

3. **Scurvy**: Scurvy is caused by a deficiency of Vitamin C. The symptoms of scurvy include anemia, abnormal bleeding, swelling and ulceration of gums, and importantly, skin and hair problems, including drying up of skin and hair. This matches the symptoms described in the question, indicating that this is the correct answer.

4. **Anorexia**: Anorexia is an eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image. It does not directly cause drying up of skin and hair, so this option is also incorrect.

Based on the analysis, the correct answer to the question is **scurvy**, which is associated with a deficiency of Vitamin C.

### Summary of the Steps:
1. Analyze each option for the associated symptoms.
2. Eliminate options that do not match the symptoms of drying up of skin and hair.
3. Identify the correct option based on the symptoms described.