Which etiologic category encompasses metabolic etiologies such as diabetes mellitus and hypocalcemia?

• A. Nutritional
• B. Metabolic
• C. Toxin
• D. Radiation and electric shock

Answer: (B)

Metabolic etiologies refer to disorders driven by the body's metabolism and biochemical regulation, including how hormones, minerals, and energy are processed. Diabetes mellitus is a systemic metabolic disorder affecting insulin and glucose metabolism, while hypocalcemia reflects disturbances in calcium balance regulated by parathyroid hormone, vitamin D, and kidney function. Both represent internal metabolic derangements, not simply a lack of nutrients or external toxic exposure. That’s why they fit best under the metabolic category. Nutritional would involve actual dietary deficiencies or excesses, toxin covers harmful substances, and radiation/electric shock describe external injuries, not the ongoing metabolic regulation at the root of these conditions.