Vitamin C deficiency

Scurvy is a rare disorder, with epidemics typically affecting populations subject to famine or displacement during wartime.

Most key clinical manifestations are related to impaired collagen synthesis. These include bleeding complications (spontaneous petechiae and ecchymoses), friable gingiva and loose teeth, bone pain, and joint effusions.

Other complications include heart failure, encephalopathy, and entrapment neuropathies.

If not treated promptly, scurvy can be fatal.

Complete recovery is anticipated in most patients.

Scurvy is a life-threatening condition due to dietary vitamin C deficiency. Those affected are mostly refugees or victims of famine, older people, individuals with a history of alcohol misuse or an atypical diet, or children with autism or idiosyncratic behavioural abnormalities. Cardinal features include spontaneous bleeding from gums or poor wound healing, perifollicular ecchymoses, haemarthroses, and joint pain. Diagnosis is often delayed because of slow identification of disease or incomplete review of dietary history. Rapid resolution occurs after vitamin C treatment.[1]Weise Prinzo Z. Scurvy and its prevention and control in major emergencies. 1999 [internet publication]. http://www.unhcr.org/4cbef0599.pdf [2]Hodges RE, Hood J, Canham JE, et al. Clinical manifestations of ascorbic acid deficiency in man. Am J Clin Nutr. 1971 Apr;24(4):432-43. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/5090631?tool=bestpractice.com