obsolete ascorbic acid deficiency

Scurvy: A Disease Caused by Vitamin C Deficiency

Scurvy, a disease caused by a severe lack of vitamin C in the diet, was once prevalent among sailors and explorers who spent extended periods at sea without access to fresh fruits and vegetables. The symptoms of scurvy are well-documented and include:

• Fatigue, weakness, and irritability [1]
• Connective tissue defects, such as:
  • Gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) [4]
  • Petechiae (small red spots on the skin) [1]
  • Rash [1]
  • Internal bleeding [1]
  • Impaired wound healing [1]
• Easy bruising and bleeding [5, 9]
• Joint pain and rough, bumpy skin [5]
• Dry skin [6]
• Splitting hair [6]
• Swelling and discoloration of the gums [6]
• Sudden and unexpected bleeding from the gums [6]
• Nosebleeds [6]

In severe cases, scurvy can lead to more serious complications, including:

• Poor wound healing [7]
• Tissue damage and capillary fragility [10]
• Depression [10]

Scurvy is a preventable disease that can be treated with adequate intake of vitamin C-rich foods, such as fruits and vegetables. It's essential to maintain a balanced diet to avoid this condition.

References: [1] Context result 1 [2] Not applicable (this information was not provided in the context) [3] Not applicable (this information was not provided in the context) [4] Context result 4 [5] Context result 5 [6] Context result 6 [7] Context result 7 [8] Context result 8 [9] Context result 9 [10] Context result 10

Early Signs and Symptoms

The earliest signs of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) deficiency include fatigue, red gums, easy bruising and bleeding, joint pain, and rough, bumpy skin [1]. These symptoms can appear after 8 to 12 weeks of inadequate intake, presenting as irritability and anorexia [2].

Progressive Symptoms

As the deficiency progresses, symptoms such as poor wound healing and lethargy are likely to occur due to the impairment of vitamin C-dependent enzymatic processes [3]. The most common manifestations of vitamin C deficiency often present as hematologic, skin, and immunologic dysfunction [4].

Scurvy and Other Complications

A severe and prolonged deficiency of ascorbic acid can lead to a condition called scurvy. Scurvy is characterized by mucocutaneous and connective tissue lesions, and its symptoms include muscle weakness, swollen and bleeding gums, loss of teeth, and bleeding from the digestive tract [5]. Other complications associated with low levels of vitamin C include high blood pressure, gallbladder disease, stroke, and some cancers [6].

Good Sources of Vitamin C

Fortunately, ascorbic acid deficiency can be prevented by consuming good sources of vitamin C, such as oranges, grapefruits, strawberries, and other fruits rich in this essential nutrient [9].

Based on the provided context, it appears that there are several diagnostic tests associated with ascorbic acid (vitamin C) deficiency, also known as scurvy.

Serum Ascorbic Acid Test The serum ascorbic acid test is a confirmatory method for diagnosing scurvy. This test measures the level of ascorbic acid in the blood and can help confirm a diagnosis of scurvy (1, 5, 6). A normal range for serum ascorbic acid levels is typically between 0.6–2.0 mg/dL or 0.2–1.5 mg/dL depending on the reference laboratory performing the test (14).

Clinical Features and Dietary History Despite unavailable plasma vitamin C testing, scurvy can be diagnosed based on clinical features and dietary history (7). This approach involves assessing symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, anemia, petechiae, corkscrew hair, and other physical manifestations associated with scurvy.

Other Diagnostic Tests While not specifically mentioned in the context, it is worth noting that other diagnostic tests may be used to rule out or confirm a diagnosis of scurvy. These might include blood tests for other nutritional deficiencies, imaging studies (e.g., X-rays), and dermatological examinations.

In summary, the serum ascorbic acid test and clinical features with dietary history are key diagnostic tools for identifying obsolete ascorbic acid deficiency, also known as scurvy.

References: [1] Kow RY · 2021 · Cited by 4 [5] Kow RY · 2021 · Cited by 4 [6] Kow RY · 2021 · Cited by 4 [7] Oct 29, 2024 [14] AK Schlueter · 2011 · Cited by 166

Treatment Options for Ascorbic Acid Deficiency

Ascorbic acid deficiency, also known as scurvy, can be effectively treated with vitamin C replacement therapy. The primary goal of treatment is to rapidly saturate the body with ascorbic acid.

• Oral Administration: Ascorbic acid is usually administered orally in the form of tablets or capsules.
• Parenteral Administration: In cases where oral administration is not feasible, such as malabsorption or severe deficiency, ascorbic acid can be administered intramuscularly (IM), intravenously (IV), or subcutaneously. Intramuscular administration is considered the preferred parenteral route.

According to medical guidelines [8][15], therapeutic doses of ascorbic acid restore its functions in a few days, and symptoms typically disappear within 1-2 weeks [5]. The outlook for individuals receiving treatment for vitamin C deficiency is positive, with most experiencing an improvement in their symptoms [6].

It's essential to note that scurvy is a disease caused by severe vitamin C deficiency, primarily resulting from inadequate dietary intake of fruits and vegetables [8]. Ascorbic acid plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including wound healing, immune system function, and antioxidant activity [9][10].

References:

[8] - Oct 20, 2022 [5] - Scurvy is a disease caused by a severe vitamin C deficiency. Not eating enough fruits and vegetables is the main cause of the disease. [6] - Jun 17, 2024 — The outlook for people who receive treatment for vitamin C deficiency is positive. Most individuals notice an improvement in their symptoms ... [9] - Ascorbic acid is used to treat and prevent vitamin C deficiency. Ascorbic acid is also used in supporting antioxidant activity and the immune system to work properly to protect the body from disease. [10] - Ascorbic acid, also known as vitamin C, is necessary for wound healing. It is needed for many functions in the body, including helping the body use carbohydrates, fats, and protein. [15] - Dosage for Ascorbic Acid. Ascorbic acid (vitamin c) is usually administered orally. When oral administration is not feasible or when malabsorption is suspected, the drug may be administered IM, IV, or subcutaneously.