Pellagra as a differential diagnosis in the confused patient on the acute medical unit. Issue 11 (2nd November 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tew, Jennifer Catherine; Harrington, Laura; Elsayed, Haythum; Mlawa, Gideon
• Is Part Of: BMJ case reports. Volume 15:Issue 11(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-11-02
• Subjects: dermatology -- alcohol-related disorders -- medical education -- malabsorption; Medicine -- Case studies -- Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2022-249405
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-790X

Abstract

Abstract : A man in his 80s was admitted via the acute medical take after presenting with increased confusion and features of alcohol withdrawal. He had a several-month history of a worsening pruritic rash surrounding his neck, arms and legs in addition to new, profuse diarrhoea. In view of the background of known chronic alcoholism and the coexisting symptoms of rash, confusion and diarrhoea, pellagra was diagnosed via a multidisciplinary approach. Oral nicotinamide supplementation was commenced and his symptoms responded rapidly. The bias and challenge of reaching a unified diagnosis in the context of a multisystem condition are exemplified in this case report.