Revisiting Scurvy: Unveiling a Forgotten Disease

Scurvy, a disease of Vitamin C deficiency, was once a major health concern, particularly among sailors and explorers. Although considered a rare condition in modern times, scurvy is a significant health issue, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children with global developmental delay, autism spectrum disorder, and physical disabilities. Clinical manifestations of scurvy include fatigue, malaise, musculoskeletal pain, as well as cutaneous signs such as perifollicular petechiae and ecchymoses. Here, we are presenting a case of 12-year-old male child with cerebral palsy, with purpuric lesions on his extremities and painful swelling on his foot. Dermoscopy showed follicular hyperkeratosis, coiled hairs, and perifollicular petechiae. Lab investigations revealed microcytic hypochromic anemia. X-rays of bilateral knees showed Frankel’s sign and Wimberger’s ring sign. A skin biopsy confirmed a follicular hyperkeratotic plug with perifollicular inflammation and extravasation of red blood cells. The patient was treated with oral ascorbic acid, leading to significant clinical improvement.