A Narrative Review on Pediatric Scurvy: The Last Twenty Years

Sandra Trapani1, Chiara Rubino2, Giuseppe Indolfi3

  • 1Pediatric Unit, Department of Health Sciences, Meyer Children's University Hospital, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 24, 50137 Florence, Italy.

Nutrients
|March 12, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Scurvy, caused by vitamin C deficiency, is increasingly seen in children with poor diets or disabilities. Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent severe complications and avoid misdiagnosis.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Nutrition
  • Clinical Medicine

Background:

  • Scurvy, a condition resulting from vitamin C deficiency, is increasingly diagnosed in children, particularly those with specific dietary or developmental challenges.
  • While historically rare in developed nations, recent trends show a rise in pediatric scurvy cases, often linked to atypical dietary patterns or disabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the clinical manifestations, diagnostic challenges, and delays in diagnosing scurvy in children.
  • To analyze recent literature on pediatric scurvy, focusing on its varied presentation and differential diagnoses.

Main Methods:

  • Extensive literature review of studies published in the last 20 years.
  • Analysis of 15 selected articles reporting on 166 children with scurvy.
  • Focus on clinical features, differential diagnosis, and diagnostic delay.

Main Results:

  • Scurvy presents a wide clinical spectrum, mimicking autoimmune diseases, infections, and cancers.
  • Normal nutritional status, anemia, or elevated inflammatory markers can lead to misdiagnosis.
  • Musculoskeletal complaints are key indicators, even in otherwise healthy children.

Conclusions:

  • Scurvy should be considered in children with musculoskeletal complaints, regardless of risk factors.
  • Dietary history and physical examination are essential; serum vitamin C levels confirm diagnosis.
  • Prompt diagnosis and treatment are vital to prevent severe outcomes and unnecessary medical interventions.

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