|
| Fig. 40.3 Scurvy. Characteristic perifollicular hemorrhage and follicular hyperkeratosis. |
Yes, but it is rare. Vitamin C present in fresh fruits and vegetables is a necessary cofactor in collagen synthesis. Deficiency states initially demonstrate enlargement and keratosis of hair follicles with development of corkscrew hairs in adults. Within weeks, there is a proliferation of blood vessels around hair follicles (Fig. 40-3) and in the interdental papillae of gingiva with hemorrhage. Impaired collagen synthesis results in poor wound healing. Recent reports also describe clinical findings of purpura mimicking vasculitis and extensive ecchymoses on the lower extremities. Infantile scurvy is often associated with lower extremity fractures and subperiosteal hemorrhage and demonstrates a characteristic radiographic ground-glass osteopenia. It occurs most commonly between six and twenty four months and is associated with dietary deficiency of medical, social or economic cause.
Gonzalez-Gay MA, Garcia-Porrua C, Lueiro M, et al: Scurvy can mimic cutaneous vasculitis: three case reports,
Rev Rheum Engl Ed 66:360–361, 1999.
Pimentel L: Scurvy: historical review and current diagnostic approach,
Am J Emerg Med 21:328–332, 2003.
Jenny C: Evaluating infants and young children with multiple fractures,
Pediatrics 118(3):1299–1303, 2006.
