Pellagra is a disease which is due to the lack of Vitamin B3 or niacin and protein (tryptophan) in the diet. Pellagra can also occur if the body fails to absorb these important nutrients. Pellagra still exists in countries where the diet consists mainly of corn or sorghum which is not a good source of protein nor niacin. Pellagra may also develop in patients with gastrointestinal problems and alcoholics. Pellagra is characterized by the 4Ds — diarrhea, dermatitis, dementia and death. Pellagra becomes deadly in poverty stricken areas where the proper nutrition or supplements is not an option. Left untreated pellagra continues to progress over the years till death eventually occurs.
History:
Don Gaspar Casal first identified pellagra in 1735 while Joseph Goldberger established the dietary theory of Pellagra in 1915. Prison inmates volunteered for experiments on exchange for a pardon. The inmates were given a poor diet he believed to be connected to pellagra and within months the volunteers came down with pellagra. After the inmates were put back on a balanced diet the symptoms disappeared.
Fast Facts:
- Derived from Italian word 'pelle' meaning skin and 'agra' meaning rough
- Occurs primarily in developing countries or poverty stricken areas
- Referred to as an adult disease
- Primary pellagra: caused by inadequate diet
- Secondary pellagra: caused by problems of absorption like alcoholism, liver cirrhosis
- Neurological symptoms: anxiety, depression, delusions, hallucinations
- Hartnup disease: tryptophan metabolism disorder which can cause pellagra
- Best food sources of Vitamin B3: poultry, tuna, veal, fish, and green leafy vegetables
- Daily requirement for niacin: 20 mg.
Disclaimer: The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you have Pellagra, please consult your doctor.
Pellagra Discussion and Blogs
Carcinoid Cancer Foundation: Niacin Q and A
RevolutionHealth: Pellagra Discussions
Dr Brenda MD Medblog: Answer: Disease of the Week Number 5: Pellagra (March 9, 2008)
Scrub Notes: The Great Pellagra Epidemic of 1915 (February 15, 2008)
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