Pellagra

A potentially fatal nutritional disorder caused by deficiency of niacin (see vitamin B complex) and resulting in dermatitis, diarrhoea, and dementia. Pellagra occurs primarily in poor rural communities in parts of the world, such as areas of India, where people subsist on maize. Most of the niacin in maize is unabsorbable unless the maize is treated with an alkali such as limewater. Disorders such as carcinoid syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease may also be a cause of pellagra. The 1st symptoms are weakness, weight loss, lethargy, depression, irritability, and inflammation and itching of skin exposed to sunlight. In acute attacks, weeping blisters may develop on the affected skin, and the tongue becomes swollen and painful. Diagnosis is made from the patient’s condition and dietary history. Daily intake of niacin and a varied diet usually bring about a cure.