Scurvy Oral Features — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

Correct answer: A — Swollen, bleeding gingivae with possible tooth mobility

Vitamin C deficiency impairs collagen formation and capillary integrity. The characteristic oral presentation is swollen, haemorrhagic gingivae that bleed readily; advanced disease may be associated with tooth mobility or loss. The gingival manifestations are often more conspicuous where plaque-induced inflammation is present. Firm, fibrotic gingival enlargement is more typical of drug-associated gingival overgrowth or hereditary gingival fibromatosis. White reticular striae suggest oral lichen planus, while diffuse melanotic pigmentation may occur in conditions such as primary adrenal insufficiency. Bilateral painless parotid enlargement is associated with sialosis, including that related to alcohol misuse or eating disorders, rather than scurvy.

Reference: NHS, Scurvy, symptoms section, reviewed 2023. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/scurvy/