Curious case of severe scurvy

  • 0University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky, USA.
Nutrition in clinical practice : official publication of the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition +

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Abstract

Scurvy, the clinical manifestation of vitamin C deficiency, exhibits the characteristic cutaneous findings of perifollicular petechiae, corkscrew hairs, gingivitis, swollen gums, and easy bruising. Syncope is a less reported presenting symptom. Although considered a rare nutritional deficiency not commonly seen in the developed world, it should remain on the differential for those with a history of malnutrition or malabsorption. We present a challenging and severe case of scurvy in a patient secondary to malnutrition and possible undiagnosed Crohn's disease. Recognizing classic dermatologic sequelae of scurvy-and potentially, less common symptoms such as syncope-can prompt diagnosis and treatment initiation.