What symptom is least likely associated with decreased levels of tryptophan in the body?

• A. Psychological disturbances
• B. Skin rash
• C. Glossitis
• D. Fever

Answer: (D)

Decreased levels of tryptophan in the body can lead to a variety of symptoms primarily because tryptophan is an essential amino acid that serves as a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in mood regulation and psychological well-being. Conditions associated with low tryptophan often manifest as psychological disturbances, such as depression or anxiety, which are linked to serotonin deficits.

Skin rash and glossitis can also be consequences of nutritional deficiencies, including those affecting levels of tryptophan, as they may indicate broader issues with overall protein synthesis and nutrient absorption or utilization in the body.

Fever, on the other hand, is primarily a response to infection or inflammatory processes rather than directly linked to tryptophan levels. It does not arise from deficiencies in tryptophan itself and therefore is the symptom least likely associated with decreased levels of this amino acid. The presence of fever suggests an underlying pathology like an infection rather than a nutritional deficiency, making it distinct from the symptoms related to low tryptophan.