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Scurvy — DTM&H MCQ

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HardNutrition and micronutrient deficienciesScurvyDTM&H

A displaced older adult with restricted diet has swollen bleeding gums, perifollicular haemorrhages and poor wound healing. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: B — Vitamin C deficiency

Vitamin C deficiency is the single best answer because scurvy causes gingival bleeding, perifollicular haemorrhage and impaired collagen synthesis. Vitamin K deficiency is plausible in a related presentation, but it is less appropriate because it does not fit the key discriminator in this vignette. The teaching point is that fresh fruit and vegetable access is a practical prevention measure in camps.

Reference: WHO guideline updates on malnutrition and micronutrients; Manson's Tropical Diseases