Scurvy

Tyler Fox

What is Scurvy and What Causes

It? Scurvy is a disease caused by the deficiency of Vitamin C.

Vitamin C is another name for Ascobric Acid.

Who Gets Scurvy? Was often seen in Sailors during the 15th-

16th centuries since they couldn’t have fresh fruit on board.

People with eating disorders.

Citizens of 3rd world countries and the malnourished.

Signs and Symptoms

Bruising on the Skin (papules)

Corkscrew Hairs

Swollen Gums and Tooth Loss

Joint Pain

Low Blood Pressure

How is it diagnosed?

Papules are Visible.

Dietary History of Vitamin C deficiency.

Clinically (Observation) Based.

Scurvy, an Acute Disease

Very Acute

Strong Symptoms

Occurs only when you are defficiant in Vitamin C

Immunity? No one is Immune.

Anyone with a significant deficiency of Vitamin C can contract scurvy.

What does it effect?

Collagen Fibers in the Skin (Bleeding and Bruising)

Gum tissue swells and deteriorates due to lack of connective tissue fibers.

Eyes dry out and become sensitive due to bleeding in the optic sheath.

Blood Pressure decreases and is often the cause of death in terminal cases.

Collagen Fibers

Prevention and Course of

Treatment (or if you don’t treat

it…) Easily Preventable by keeping a steady

intake of Vitamin C.

Treatment consists of 800-1000 mg of Vitamin C per day for the first weeks, then around 400 mg/day until a full recocvery

If left untreated, Scurvy is TERMINAL.