MR imaging in a child with scurvy: a case report

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Science
• Pediatric Medicine
• Radiology

Background:

• Scurvy (vitamin C deficiency) is uncommon in developed nations.
• It disproportionately affects nutritionally vulnerable groups like the elderly and alcoholics.
• Pediatric scurvy incidence is notably low.

Observation:

• A 5-year-old girl with cerebral palsy and developmental delay presented with symptoms suggestive of scurvy.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) was utilized to assess the patient's condition.
• The case underscores the persistence of scurvy in specific high-risk pediatric demographics.

Findings:

• The study details a rare pediatric case of scurvy.
• MRI findings provided diagnostic support for scurvy in this patient.
• This highlights the need for vigilance in diagnosing nutritional deficiencies in children with complex health issues.

Implications:

• Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing scurvy and preventing complications.
• Healthcare providers should maintain awareness of scurvy in at-risk pediatric patients, even with rare presentations.
• This case contributes to the understanding of scurvy's varied clinical manifestations and diagnostic approaches.