Adult Scurvy

Abstract

Scurvy is a disease that can mimic other more serious disorders such as deep vein thrombosis, vasculitis, and systemic bleeding disorders. Because the clinical features of scurvy are no longer well appreciated, scorbutic patients are often extensively evaluated for other disorders. Familiarity with the risk factors for and clinical manifestation of scurvy can facilitate earlier diagnosis. We report three patients who highlight the epidemiology, clinical features, and differential diagnosis of scurvy. (JAMA1985;253:805-807)