Scurvy is Back. (November 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Callus, Claire Ann; Vella, Samantha; Ferry, Peter
• Is Part Of: Nutrition and metabolic insights. Volume 11(2018)
• Publication Date: 2018-11
• Subjects: Vitamin C -- ascorbic acid -- scurvy -- nutritional deficiency malnutrition; Nutrition -- Periodicals; Metabolism -- Periodicals; Nutritional Physiological Phenomena -- Periodicals; Metabolism -- Periodicals; Metabolism; Nutrition; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 572.405
• DOI: 10.1177/1178638818809097
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1178-6388

Abstract

Background and objective: Scurvy, caused by vitamin C deficiency, first described by Hippocrates, is known to many as 'The Pirates' Disease'. Although a disease rarely acknowledged in modern medicine, we present 2 cases of elderly gentlemen found to have scurvy, who improved significantly on treatment. Methods: This study presents a case report of 2 patients undergoing rehabilitation at Karin Grech Hospital in Malta, noted to have signs and symptoms of vitamin C deficiency. Vitamin C levels were found to be low and thus supplementation was administered. Results: After a few weeks, a significant improvement was noted in level of frailty, mood, bleeding tendency, and gum health. Conclusions: The modern doctor must keep this ancient disease in mind, as it presents insidiously with debilitating repercussions, particularly in older people who are at a higher risk. It is easily treatable once detected.