Scurvy — SCE Dermatology MCQ

Correct answer: C — Scurvy (vitamin C deficiency) — perifollicular purpura and corkscrew hairs are pathognomonic

Scurvy (vitamin C deficiency) causes impaired collagen synthesis leading to capillary fragility. Perifollicular purpura (purpura concentrated around hair follicles) and corkscrew hairs (coiled dystrophic hairs due to impaired keratin formation) are pathognomonic dermatological signs. Other features include gingival swelling/bleeding, poor wound healing, and musculoskeletal pain. Risk groups include elderly living alone, alcoholics, those with restricted diets, and psychiatric patients. Treatment is vitamin C supplementation (250 mg QDS). Clinical improvement occurs within days. Scurvy is underdiagnosed in developed countries but should be considered in any patient with perifollicular purpura.

Reference: BAD 2019; NICE CKS