Definition:
Pellagra is a vitamin deficiency disease caused by dietary lack of niacin (B3) and protein, especially proteins
containing the essential amino acid tryptophan. Because tryptophan could be converted into niacin, foods with
tryptophan but without niacin, such as milk, prevent pellagra. But, if dietary tryptophan is diverted into
protein production, niacin deficiency may still result.
Diagnosis:
The amino acid deficiency must be balanced by consumption of other sources of protein. It was common to prisoners
of Soviet labor camps, the infamous Gulag. It could be found in cases of chronic alcoholism.
Treatment:
Nicotinamide or niacin taken orally is usually effective in reversing the clinical manifestations of pellagra. As
patients usually malnourished and suffer from other vitamin deficiencies, provision of a high-protein diet and
B-complex vitamins is needed for complete restoration of health.
Symptoms and Signs:
The symptoms of pellagra include: High sensitivity to sunlight; Aggression; Dermatitis, alopecia, oedema; Smooth,
beefy red glossitis; Red skin lesions; Insomnia; Weakness.
Causes:
Dietary deficiency of niacin or its amino acid precursor tryptophan results in pellagra. Dietary amino acid
imbalances are also associated with the development of pellagra. Excessive leucine noted in diets that sorghum is
a staple causes an amino acid imbalance, which interferes with tryptophan metabolism resulting in the development
of pellagra.
The information on this site is for research purposes only and can not substitute for the advice of a medical professional. Ailments.com is not run by doctors and does not engage in the practice of medicine. Our site is not a medical authority, it is just a research tool for you to use in preparation for consulting with a doctor. We can not guarantee our information is accurate or up to date. Even if a statement made about a medical condition is accurate, it may not apply to you or your symptoms, so you should always consult a doctor. Nothing on our site should be construed as an attempt to offer or render a medical opinion or otherwise engage in the practice of medicine.
