Vitamin C Deficiency
The total-body pool of vitamin C varies
from 1.5 to 3 g. Deficiency of Vitamin C causes Scurvy.
Scurvy now occurs in areas of urban poverty. An increased
incidence occurs at 6 to 12 months of age in
infants whose processed milk formulas are
unsupplemented with citrus fruit or vegetables as a
result of maternal error or neglect . This uncommon in
developed countries.
Another peak occurs in middle and old age.
Edentulous men ( men without teeth ) and
those who live alone and cook for themselves are
particularly prone. The affected individuals usually have
deficiencies of other dietary constituents as well.
Photo of Scurvy
In adults, hairs become fragmented,
purpura (bleeding) into the skin, beginning on the backs
of the lower limbs coalescing to become ecchymoses ;
hemorrhage into the muscles of the arms and
legs.Hemorrhages into joints; splinter hemorrhages in the
nail beds; gum involvement (only in people with teeth)
that includes swelling, friability, bleeding, secondary
infection, and loosening of the teeth; poor wound healing
and breakdown of recently healed wounds; petechial
hemorrhages in the viscera; and emotional changes. In the
later stage - icterus, edema, and fever are common, and
convulsions, hypotension, and death may occur abruptly.
Anemia is common and is due to bleeding into tissues.
In infancy and childhood, hemorrhages in
to the bones causes painful swellings. Sternum of chest
may sink inwards
Treatment : The usual
dose in adults is 100 mg three to five times a day by
mouth until 4 g has been given.Then 100 mg/d.
In infants and children, administration of 10 to 25 mg
three times a day is adequate. A diet rich in vitamin C
should be initiated simultaneously. Spontaneous bleeding
usually ceases within 24 hrs, muscle and bone pains
subside quickly, and the gums begin to heal within 2 to 3
days.
Photo of Scurvy
The recommended daily allowance for
vitamin C
Vitamin
C content of various food items
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