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Arch Dermatol. 2009;145(2):195-200.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text and any section headings.

Diagnosis: Scurvy.

MICROSCOPIC, LABORATORY FINDINGS, AND CLINICAL COURSE

Examination of the hematoxylin-eosin–stained biopsy specimen from a purpuric area of the skin revealed extravasated red blood cells in the dermis around the hair follicles. No signs of vasculitis were found. Scurvy was suspected and confirmed by a low level of ascorbic acid (0.2 mg/dL [to convert to micromoles per liter, multiply by 56.78]; reference range, 0.4-2.0 mg/dL). The patient had poor nutritional intake and had consumed only lentils for the past 2 years according to his family. He was treated with a transfusion of packed red blood cells and oral ascorbic acid (1 g/d). Within 20 days, the purpura and gum lesions had completely regressed and his anemia had resolved.

DISCUSSION

Scurvy, which is one of the earliest recorded diseases in humans, was first described in the Ebers Papyrus in 1550 BC.¹ It is caused by vitamin C deficiency. Humans are unable to synthesize vitamin C and therefore require . . . [Full Text of this Article]

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Arch Dermatol. 2009;145(2):195-200.
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