Scurvy: the almost forgotten disease - a case report

Aust Dent J. 2022 Mar;67(1):100-103. doi: 10.1111/adj.12889. Epub 2021 Nov 23.

Abstract

Hypovitaminosis C, or scurvy, is thought to be an uncommon condition. Although prevalent in the 19th century, its ease of absorption and availability in a general diet has greatly reduced its incidence. Vitamin C is necessary for a number of physiological processes and deficiency can result in a number of complications including bleeding/bruising, anaemia and gingival hyperplasia. This case report demonstrates a case of hypovitaminosis C presenting to a tertiary hospital related to poor dietary intake in a patient with behavioural medical conditions. Treatment consisted of oral supplementation of vitamin C with almost immediate resolution of presenting symptoms.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Ascorbic Acid / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Scurvy* / diagnosis
  • Scurvy* / drug therapy
  • Scurvy* / etiology
  • Vitamins

Substances

  • Vitamins
  • Ascorbic Acid