Scurvy as a predisposing factor in gingival disease - a case report

ABSTRACT

Scurvy is a vitamin C deficiency disease which mainly occurs in teenagers. Vitamin C plays a vital role in the synthesis of collagen, the deficiency of which leads to a widespread pathology of supporting tissues of blood vessels, bone and teeth. There is an increased permeability of the capillaries to red blood cells causing hemorrhage. The bone becomes friable at the growing end. There is interference with timely collagen formation which causes delayed wound healing. In addition to other symptoms, there are bleeding gums, loose teeth plus swollen and stiff joints. A case report of a 13 years old girl is presented with gingival swelling and bleeding since last 4 years. The case was thoroughly investigated, oral prophylaxis along with vitamin C was prescribed and the patient became normal within one week time