Scurvy Presenting with Severe Skin Changes

Abstract

Scurvy is a condition caused by a severe lack of dietary vitamin C, which is found in many fruits and vegetables. Vitamin C serves as an essential cofactor for collagen production. As an important structural protein, deficiencies in collagen formation result in fragile tissues and capillaries. (1) Physical examination findings of lower extremity edema, hyperkeratosis, poor wound healing, perifollicular petechiae, purpura, and corkscrew hair are all associated with scurvy. Treatment for scurvy is with vitamin C supplementation and modification to the dietary habits that led to the condition.