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Severe scurvy: an underestimated disease.
M Levavasseur1, C Becquart1, E Pape1
1Department of Dermatology, Hospital Claude-Huriez, University Hospital of Lille, Lille, France.
European Journal of Clinical Nutrition
|June 18, 2015
Summary
Scurvy, a vitamin C deficiency disease, still occurs in rare cases, particularly in those with extreme diets or malabsorption. Early recognition and vitamin C supplementation are crucial for effective treatment and preventing severe complications.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Internal Medicine
- Medical History
Background:
- Scurvy is an ancient disease historically linked to vitamin C deficiency.
- While rare in developed nations, scurvy persists in specific populations, including those with extreme diets, malabsorption issues, and the elderly or children with poor nutrition.
Observation:
- This study presents three distinct cases of scurvy.
- Case 1 involved a patient with Crohn's disease.
- Case 2 presented in an individual with anorexia nervosa and drug addiction.
- Case 3 occurred in a patient experiencing social isolation.
Findings:
- Scurvy diagnosis can be challenging due to nonspecific symptoms mimicking other conditions.
- Key indicators include spontaneous hematoma and purpura in patients with nutritional disorders.
- Vitamin C supplementation is a simple, rapid, and effective treatment for scurvy.
Implications:
- Prompt identification of scurvy is vital to prevent serious complications like bone pain, heart failure, and gastrointestinal issues.
- Healthcare providers should consider scurvy in patients presenting with relevant symptoms and risk factors.
- Timely vitamin C intervention can rapidly resolve scurvy and avert severe health outcomes.
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