[Scurvy: follicular purpura as a diagnostic sign]

Actas Dermosifiliogr. 2005 Jul-Aug;96(6):400-2. doi: 10.1016/s0001-7310(05)73101-x.
[Article in Spanish]

Abstract

Scurvy is a set of clinical manifestations characterized by general weakness, anemia, gingivitis and cutaneous bleeding, caused by a lack of ascorbic acid in the diet. This pathology is currently a clinical rarity, although it can still be seen in cases of malnutrition associated with alcoholism or with dietary deficiencies, especially in childhood and old age. We present the case of a 45-year-old male who consulted his physician because of lower limb edema with follicular purpura, accompanied by asthenia, polyarthralgia and bleeding gums. After treatment with 1 g/day of vitamin C was initiated, the patient's symptoms quickly improved. The diagnosis of scurvy was based on the patient's clinical symptoms, dietary history and the rapid resolution of the symptoms when vitamin C supplements were initiated.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Purpura / etiology
  • Scurvy / complications
  • Scurvy / diagnosis*