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Scurvy still exists in children: A case report

Sarra Ben Ahmed, Fatma Mezghani, Samar Rhayem

    La Tunisie Medicale
    |March 15, 2022
    PubMed

    Insights

    Scurvy, a vitamin C deficiency, can occur in children with autism and eating difficulties. Early diagnosis and vitamin C supplementation rapidly resolve symptoms, highlighting the need for dietary support.

    Area of Science:

    • Pediatrics
    • Nutrition
    • Rare Diseases

    Background:

    • Scurvy is an ancient disease caused by vitamin C deficiency.
    • It is rare but can manifest in individuals with psychiatric conditions leading to nutritional deficits.
    • Early clinical suspicion is crucial, even with non-specific symptoms.

    Observation:

    • A 6-year-old boy with autism presented with limping, bleeding, joint pain, and weakness.
    • Initial suspicion of child abuse was ruled out by characteristic clinical and radiological signs of scurvy.
    • The patient exhibited undetectable vitamin C levels and an unbalanced diet.

    Findings:

    • The clinical presentation and diagnostic findings were consistent with scurvy.
    • Vitamin C levels were undetectable, confirming severe deficiency.
    • Rapid clinical improvement was observed after vitamin C supplementation.

    Implications:

    • Scurvy should be considered in children with psychiatric disorders, especially those with eating difficulties and musculoskeletal or bleeding symptoms.
    • Systematic vitamin C supplementation is essential for preventing scurvy in at-risk pediatric populations.
    • This case underscores the importance of nutritional assessment in children with autism and feeding challenges.

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