Scurvy Diagnosis Highlights Restrictive Diet Risks

A young man in Ann Arbor required clinical treatment for a severe vitamin C deficiency caused by a limited diet.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Nutrition

A detailed close-up of oranges, lemons, and grapefruits arranged on a wooden surface, highlighting the importance of vitamin C in nutrition. — Doctors in Ann Arbor diagnosed a young man with scurvy, a rare condition caused by severe vitamin C deficiency from a restrictive diet. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Doctors in Ann Arbor diagnosed a man in his 20s with scurvy after he experienced month-long leg swelling and bruising. The condition, caused by a diet lacking in vitamin C, highlights the importance of nutritional balance even in the modern United States.

Why it matters

While often considered a historical disease, scurvy can still occur when restrictive diets fail to provide essential nutrients like vitamin C. Understanding these signs helps individuals recognize when a limited diet may be creating a serious health deficit.

This case report documents a patient with a blood vitamin C level below 0.1 mg/dL, far below the recommended 90 milligrams for men. Research from 2017-2018 indicated that 6.8% of U.S. adults are vitamin C deficient.

The players

JAAD Case Reports

A medical journal that publishes peer-reviewed case reports in the field of dermatology.

The details

Scurvy develops when the body cannot synthesize collagen, a protein essential for skin, blood vessel, and bone health, due to a severe lack of vitamin C. In this case, dermatologists used trichoscopy to identify characteristic twisted hair shafts and follicle bleeds on the patient's legs. Diagnostic testing successfully ruled out blood clots and active bleeding, confirming the deficiency as the root cause of his symptoms.

2017-2018: 6.8% of U.S. adults were vitamin C deficient.
June 5, 2026: The case report was published in JAAD Case Reports.
October 2026: The medical case details were published.

Health Landscape

This report highlights a rare clinical manifestation of a micronutrient gap that affects nearly 7% of the national population. It serves as a reminder that severe dietary restrictions can lead to deficiencies once thought to be eliminated in the modern era.

If you follow a highly restrictive diet, persistent unexplained bruising or skin changes are symptoms worth discussing with your doctor. Always consult a physician before making changes to your intake or starting any new vitamin supplements.

The takeaway

Scurvy remains a relevant medical concern when diets become severely restricted and lack essential vitamins. If you notice unusual skin bruising or hair changes, consult your primary care physician to assess your nutritional status.