Which of the following deficiencies is associated with Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) complications?

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Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) is a method of feeding that bypasses the gastrointestinal tract, ensuring that patients receive essential nutrients directly into their bloodstream. While TPN is an effective means of providing nutritional support, it can lead to various complications, including specific nutrient deficiencies.

Each of the deficiencies mentioned — chromium, selenium, and copper — are indeed associated with TPN complications.

Chromium deficiency is linked to impaired glucose tolerance, which can contribute to metabolic complications, particularly hyperglycemia and insulin resistance. This is particularly relevant in patients receiving TPN, as they may require glucose for energy without the dietary sources that typically supply chromium.

Selenium plays a vital role in antioxidant function, and its deficiency can lead to an increased risk of oxidative stress and immune dysfunction. Patients on TPN sometimes do not receive adequate selenium, predisposing them to complications such as cardiomyopathy or immune system impairment.

Copper is essential for various enzymatic processes and plays a crucial role in iron metabolism, connective tissue formation, and neurological function. Copper deficiency during TPN can cause hematologic issues such as anemia, along with neurological and skeletal abnormalities.

Given that TPN can inadvertently lead to deficiencies in all three of these trace elements due to the lack of their inclusion

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