What is the Difference Between Scurvy and Pellagra?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚Scurvy and pellagra are both diseases caused by nutritional deficiencies, but they differ in the specific vitamins they lack and their corresponding symptoms. The main differences between scurvy and pellagra are:
- Causes: Scurvy is caused by a deficiency in vitamin C, while pellagra is caused by a deficiency in vitamin B3.
- Symptoms: Scurvy leads to livid spots on the skin, spongy gums, loosening of teeth, and bleeding into the skin. Pellagra, on the other hand, is characterized by symptoms such as dermatitis, diarrhea, and neurological problems.
- Diagnosis: The symptoms of scurvy can occur as early as three months after insufficient intake, while symptoms of pellagra generally appear after a longer period of deficiency.
In summary, scurvy is a disease caused by a deficiency in vitamin C, resulting in symptoms related to the skin, gums, and teeth. Pellagra, on the other hand, is caused by a deficiency in vitamin B3 and presents symptoms related to the skin, digestive system, and nervous system.
Comparative Table: Scurvy vs Pellagra
Here is a table comparing the differences between scurvy and pellagra:
| Feature | Scurvy | Pellagra |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Vitamin C deficiency | Vitamin B3 (niacin) deficiency |
| Symptoms | Livid spots on the skin, spongy gums, loosening of teeth, bleeding into the skin, poor wound healing, gum abnormalities (pain, bleeding & loose/missing teeth), and bruising (purpura, ecchymosis, perifollicular hemorrhages) | Diarrhea, dermatitis, dementia, and death (the "four Ds") |
| Treatment | Increased intake of vitamin C-rich foods or supplements | Increased intake of vitamin B3-rich foods or supplements |
| Prevalence | Rare, but can occur due to poor diet and feeding | Rare, but can occur due to poor diet and feeding |
Scurvy is a disease caused by an insufficient intake of vitamin C, leading to issues with the development, growth, and healing of the skin, bones, and connective tissues. Pellagra, on the other hand, is caused by a deficiency in vitamin B3 (niacin) and can result in diarrhea, dermatitis, dementia, and death (the "four Ds"). Both diseases can be resolved with an increased intake of the respective vitamins, either through food or supplements.
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