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A case of infantile scurvy treated only with vitamin C: a forgotten disease

Aysegul Bursali1, Sarper Gursu, Alper Gursu

  • 1Baltalimani Metin Sabanci Bone and Joint Diseases Education and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey. dr.abursali@yahoo.com

Acta Orthopaedica Belgica
|August 18, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Scurvy, a vitamin C deficiency, can cause severe symptoms in children, particularly affecting bones. Prompt vitamin C treatment is effective and crucial for recovery, preventing life-threatening complications.

Area of Science:

  • Nutritional Science
  • Pediatric Medicine
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Scurvy, a condition resulting from vitamin C deficiency, is rare but can present with significant musculoskeletal issues in children.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment are essential as untreated scurvy can be life-threatening.

Observation:

  • A case report details a 16-month-old infant diagnosed with scurvy.
  • The infant presented with typical musculoskeletal manifestations of the disease.

Findings:

  • Treatment with vitamin C administration led to rapid symptom resolution.
  • The child experienced a full recovery and normal development during a 12-year follow-up period.

Implications:

  • Highlights the importance of recognizing scurvy in pediatric patients, as it can be easily overlooked due to its rarity.
  • Emphasizes the straightforward efficacy of vitamin C in treating scurvy and preventing long-term health consequences.

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