# Scurvy in a Pediatric Patient: A Rare Diagnosis in the Modern World

## TL;DR

This paper presents a case of scurvy in a 12-year-old child, highlighting its oral symptoms and the challenges in diagnosing this rare nutritional disorder.

## Contribution

The novelty lies in the detailed case report of a pediatric patient with oral scurvy manifestations and a review of current literature.

## Key findings

- Scurvy in children can present with oral symptoms like gingival bleeding.
- Diagnosis is often delayed due to nonspecific symptoms.
- Treatment involves dietary changes and vitamin C supplementation.

## Abstract

Scurvy is the oldest-known nutritional disorder caused by a sustained lack of ascorbic acid (vitamin C). Despite its rarity in developed countries, scurvy has been increasingly reported in recent years in pediatric patients, particularly those with selective or restricted feeding. It mainly affects the musculoskeletal system, the skin, and the oral cavity, causing gingival bleeding. Diagnosing scurvy can be difficult for clinicians because of its nonspecific symptoms, often leading to extensive testing and delayed identification of the condition. The treatment is based on changing eating habits and taking supplements with vitamin C. This study aims to present a case report of a 12-year-old child with oral manifestations of scurvy, discussing the differential diagnosis, clinical findings, and therapeutic approach, while also reviewing current literature on the topic.