Scurvy is a disease caused by a lack of vitamin C in the body. It can cause symptoms such as extreme fatigue, loss of appetite, easy bleeding, and poor wound healing.
Vitamin C is essential for making collagen. Collagen is an important protein that helps keep tissues, skin, bones, and blood vessels healthy.
The recommended daily intake of vitamin C varies by age and sex. Higher intake may be recommended during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or for people who smoke.
Common symptoms
The main symptoms of scurvy include:
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Extreme fatigue, feeling unwell, and loss of appetite
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Easy bleeding, especially from the skin and gums
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Loose or lost teeth
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Easy bruising
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Skin rashes
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Slow or poor wound healing
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Pain in the bones, muscles, and joints
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Hair loss, nail changes, and small, linear blood spots under the nails
In babies, additional signs may include irritability, poor appetite, and difficulty gaining weight. Leg pain can also occur and may be severe enough that the baby avoids moving their legs.
Symptoms of scurvy typically develop after 4 to 12 weeks of low vitamin C intake.
Confirming a diagnosis
Scurvy is diagnosed by a primary care provider or pediatrician, in the case of children. Diagnosis is based on an evaluation of signs and symptoms, dietary habits, and test results.
A doctor may also order a blood test to measure vitamin C and other vitamin levels in the body. A vitamin C level below 0.2 mg/dL may indicate scurvy, although further testing may be needed.
In some cases, an X-ray may be ordered to check for signs of bone changes, such as generalized osteopenia or characteristic findings like the scurvy line (Fraenkel line) and Wimberger ring sign.
Main causes
Scurvy occurs due to a lack of vitamin C. Some factors that increase the risk of vitamin C deficiency include:
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Excessive alcohol intake
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Smoking
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Reduced intake of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C
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Restrictive diets
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Allergies and eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia
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Intestinal malabsorption disorders, such as celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and cystic fibrosis
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Hemodialysis
According to the National Institutes of Health, people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or smoke need higher daily intakes of vitamin C.
Treatment options
The appropriate dose of vitamin C for treating scurvy varies depending on the severity of the deficiency, age, and each person’s individual needs. It should be recommended by a doctor or registered dietitian.
Vitamin C supplementation helps restore vitamin C levels quickly and effectively. About 300 mg/day may be recommended for children, while 500 to 1000 mg/day may be recommended for adults.
These supplements may be used for 1 to 3 months, or until the signs and symptoms have resolved, as directed by a doctor or registered dietitian.
It is also recommended to eat more vitamin C foods, such as acerola, strawberries, pineapple, oranges, lemons, and yellow bell peppers.