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Home :: Scurvy
Scurvy
Scurvy is an acute or chronic disease of infancy and of middle and old age caused by dietary deficiency of ascorbic acid (vitamin C). The disorder is characterized principally by anemia, hemorrhagic manifestations in the skin (ecchymoses and perifollicular hemorrhage) and in the musculoskeletal system (hemorrhage into periosteum and muscles), and changes in the gums (loosening of teeth, bleeding gums).
Causes of Scurvy
Humans are unable to synthesize ascorbic acid and require it as an essential dietary vitamin. Total-body pool of vitamin C varies from 1.5 to 3 g. First symptoms of depletion (i.e., petechial hemorrhages and ecchymoses) occur when pool size is < .5 g.
The best-understood function of vitamin C is in synthesis of collagen. Deficiency leads to impairment of peptidyl hydroxylation of procollagen, reduction in collagen formation, and secretion with associated capillary fragility.
Symptoms of Scurvy
- black-and-blue spots or marks on the skin, especially on the legs
- anemia
- partial immobility
- depression
- a feeling of discomfort
- tiredness
- nausea
- easy bruising
- swollen and bleeding gums
- loosening of teeth
- wounds healing slowly and poorly
- dry skin and hair
Diagnosis
Clinical findings confirmed by low ascorbic
acid level.
Treatment
In suspected cases, blood should be obtained for ascorbic acid level and therapy begun immediately.
Ascorbic Acid 100 mg 3 to 5 times daily until 4 g is given; then 100 mg/d is curative in days to weeks.
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