Scurvy
Vitamin C deficiency syndrome with manifestations including perifollicular hemorrhage, corkscrew hairs, gingival bleeding, poor wound healing, fatigue, and anemia, due to impaired collagen hydroxylation.
Ascorbate is the cofactor for prolyl and lysyl hydroxylases that stabilize collagen triple helix. Scurvy was the scourge of long sea voyages until Lind's controlled trial (1747) demonstrated citrus prevention. Modern cases occur in isolated older adults, alcoholics, smokers, restrictive diets, and selective eaters (including children with autism). Treatment with 100-1,000 mg/d ascorbate produces rapid clinical recovery.
How each textbook covers it
Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism, 8th ed. (Gropper) — Glossary
Disease of impaired collagen synthesis (defective hydroxylation of proline and lysine) producing bleeding gums, perifollicular hemorrhages, poor wound healing, and fatigue. Reversed by ascorbic acid.
Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease, 12th ed. — Ch 22: Vitamin C
Ascorbate is the cofactor for prolyl and lysyl hydroxylases that stabilize collagen triple helix. Scurvy was the scourge of long sea voyages until Lind's controlled trial (1747) demonstrated citrus prevention. Modern cases occur in isolated older adults, alcoholics, smokers, restrictive diets, and selective eaters (including children with autism). Treatment with 100-1,000 mg/d ascorbate produces rapid clinical recovery.
Related terms
Beriberi, Collagen, Pellagra, Petechiae, Vitamin C