Uncommon Scurvy Manifestation: Solitary Skin Lesion in an Alcoholic Case Article (Faculty180)

cited authors

  • Shabpiray, Hoda; Khan, Saira; Hersi, Jama; Khorsand Askari, Mani

description

  • Scurvy, characterized by vitamin C deficiency, typically manifests with various symptoms, most commonly skin lesions. However, the presentation of a solitary skin lesion is considered atypical. An elderly patient with a history of heavy alcohol consumption presented with a small skin lesion that developed rapidly into a solitary open wound without any preceding trauma. Laboratory analysis revealed severe vitamin C deficiency (<5 μmol/L). The patient showed significant improvement following high-dose vitamin C replacement therapy. This case underscores the potential for scurvy to present with a solitary lower body wound devoid of typical symptoms. It highlights the importance of prompt consideration of vitamin C replacement therapy, particularly in high-risk groups such as alcoholics, by healthcare providers.

authors

publication date

  • 2024

published in

start page

  • e57652

volume

  • 16