Abstract
We report a case of myopathy in a chronic alcoholic patient with scurvy who presented with generalized weakness, myalgias, and arthralgia. Our case raises awareness regarding rare interaction between vitamin C deficiency and myopathy which is seen more commonly in patients with history of chronic alcoholism and low socioeconomic status. Early treatment with vitamin C replacement is helpful in treatment of the disease and its complications.
Highlights
Ascorbic acid is an essential dietary nutrient in all primates
Deficiency of vitamin C known as scurvy is largely due to impaired collagen synthesis and disordered connective tissue. e diagnosis can be made clinically, based on a history of insufficient vitamin C intake and typical clinical signs and symptoms. e most specific symptoms are follicular hyperkeratosis and perifollicular hemorrhage, with petechiae and coiled hairs which can happen as early as 3 months after insufficient dietary intake [1]
Vitamin C level was less than 0.1 mg/dL, and diagnosis of scurvy was made. He was started on high dose of 1 gm/day of vitamin C. e patient showed the signs of improvement and his muscle weakness started to improve
Summary
Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is an essential dietary nutrient in all primates. Deficiency of vitamin C known as scurvy is largely due to impaired collagen synthesis and disordered connective tissue. E diagnosis can be made clinically, based on a history of insufficient vitamin C intake and typical clinical signs and symptoms. E most specific symptoms are follicular hyperkeratosis and perifollicular hemorrhage, with petechiae and coiled hairs which can happen as early as 3 months after insufficient dietary intake [1]. Other symptoms include ecchymoses, bleeding, and receding gums as in gingivitis, arthralgias, anemia, and impaired wound healing [1]. Cardiorespiratory symptoms, including dyspnea and hypotension, can be associated with impaired vasomotor response. Myopathy in scurvy is a rare manifestation described in literature. Concomitant other vitamin deficiency makes scurvy diagnosis a clinical challenge
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