Clinicopathologic Correlation in a Case of Scurvy.

Scurvy remains a clinically relevant diagnosis even in developed countries, particularly in patients with restrictive diets.

• The authors describe scurvy as 'an uncommon diagnosis in developed countries' but emphasize it as 'an important clinical consideration in patients with restrictive diets'.
• The patient had a history of sclerosing mesenteritis and chronic dietary restriction as predisposing factors.
• The case is presented as a clinicopathologic correlation to highlight diagnostic features.

The patient presented with cutaneous and mucosal bleeding manifestations that initially mimicked vasculitis or coagulopathy.

• Clinical findings included bilateral leg purpura, perifollicular hemorrhage, and gingival bleeding.
• The cutaneous findings 'initially raised concern for vasculitis or coagulopathy'.
• The patient was male with a history of sclerosing mesenteritis and chronic dietary restriction.

Histopathology revealed classic features of scurvy, and an undetectable vitamin C level confirmed the diagnosis.

• Skin biopsy demonstrated 'classic features of scurvy' on histopathology.
• Serum vitamin C level was undetectable, providing laboratory confirmation.
• The combination of histopathologic findings and laboratory results established the definitive diagnosis.

Oral vitamin C supplementation led to rapid clinical improvement in the patient.

• Treatment consisted of oral vitamin C supplementation.
• The clinical response was described as 'rapid clinical improvement'.
• No other interventions were reported as necessary for resolution of cutaneous findings.

A thorough dietary history and skin examination are emphasized as essential in evaluating patients with mucocutaneous bleeding.

• The authors state the case 'emphasizes the importance of a thorough dietary history and skin examination in patients presenting with mucocutaneous bleeding'.
• Perifollicular hemorrhage is highlighted as a characteristic cutaneous sign of scurvy.
• The case illustrates that nutritional deficiency should be considered in the differential diagnosis of purpura and mucosal bleeding.