Scurvy / Vitamin C Deficiency

Scurvy, also known as vitamin C deficiency, is one of the most critical and common nutritional disorders affecting guinea pigs. Unlike most mammals, guinea pigs lack the enzyme L-gulonolactone oxidase necessary to synthesize vitamin C from glucose in their bodies. This genetic inability, shared with humans and a few other species, means guinea pigs must obtain all their vitamin C requirements through diet. Without adequate daily intake of this essential nutrient, guinea pigs develop scurvy, a serious condition affecting connective tissue, blood vessels, joints, and immune function throughout the body.

Scurvy is extremely common in guinea pigs, representing one of the most frequently diagnosed nutritional disorders in veterinary practice. Studies suggest that subclinical vitamin C deficiency may affect a substantial portion of pet guinea pigs, with many showing mild symptoms that owners attribute to other causes. Adult guinea pigs require approximately ten to thirty milligrams of vitamin C per kilogram of body weight daily, with requirements increasing during illness, stress, pregnancy, and lactation. Because vitamin C degrades rapidly when exposed to air, light, and water, even guinea pigs with access to fortified foods may become deficient if food storage and delivery methods are inadequate.

The impact of vitamin C deficiency on guinea pig health is profound and affects virtually every body system. Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, and without it, connective tissue throughout the body weakens and breaks down. Blood vessels become fragile and leak, causing hemorrhaging in various tissues. Joints become painful and swollen as cartilage deteriorates. The immune system becomes severely compromised, leaving guinea pigs vulnerable to infections. Wound healing essentially stops, as new collagen cannot form. Dental health suffers as the supporting structures of teeth weaken. Without treatment, scurvy progresses to a life-threatening condition that proves fatal.

Fortunately, scurvy is entirely preventable and highly treatable when diagnosed early. With appropriate vitamin C supplementation and dietary correction, guinea pigs can recover fully from even moderate deficiency, though severe cases with extensive tissue damage may have lasting effects. Understanding scurvy is essential for every guinea pig owner, as this condition is completely avoidable with proper nutrition yet remains distressingly common due to inadequate awareness about guinea pig dietary requirements. Early recognition and intervention can prevent suffering and save lives.

The primary cause of scurvy in guinea pigs is inadequate dietary vitamin C intake. Unlike most other mammals, guinea pigs possess a mutated gene that prevents them from producing the enzyme L-gulonolactone oxidase, which is required for the final step in vitamin C synthesis. This genetic mutation makes guinea pigs entirely dependent on dietary sources for their vitamin C needs. When diet fails to provide sufficient vitamin C consistently, deficiency develops and progresses to clinical scurvy. Even brief interruptions in vitamin C intake can deplete body stores within days, as this water-soluble vitamin cannot be stored long-term.

While the genetic inability to synthesize vitamin C is universal in guinea pigs, it is not hereditary in the sense of varying between individuals or breeds. All guinea pigs share this genetic characteristic, making the entire species vulnerable to scurvy. However, individual guinea pigs may vary in their vitamin C requirements based on metabolic factors, health status, and life stage. Some guinea pigs may develop deficiency more quickly than others when intake is reduced, possibly due to differences in absorption, utilization, or excretion of the vitamin. Certain health conditions may increase vitamin C requirements or impair absorption, creating relative deficiency even with standard dietary intake.

Environmental factors significantly influence vitamin C availability and contribute to scurvy development. Vitamin C is highly unstable and degrades rapidly when exposed to heat, light, air, and moisture. Pellets fortified with vitamin C lose significant potency within ninety days of manufacture and even faster once bags are opened. Water-soluble vitamin C supplements added to water bottles degrade within hours, often providing far less vitamin C than owners believe. Improper storage of vegetables reduces their vitamin C content before consumption. Environmental stress increases vitamin C utilization, effectively raising requirements above what the diet may provide.

Multiple risk factors increase a guinea pig's likelihood of developing scurvy. Guinea pigs fed exclusively hay without pellets or fresh vegetables lack significant vitamin C sources. Those receiving old or improperly stored pellets may consume inadequate amounts despite appearing to eat normally. Guinea pigs refusing vegetables or being fed low-vitamin-C vegetables miss important dietary contributions. Illness, surgery, injury, or chronic stress increase vitamin C requirements substantially, and guinea pigs may develop deficiency during these periods even if previously well-maintained. Pregnant and nursing sows have elevated requirements, making them susceptible if diet is not adjusted accordingly.

The mechanism of scurvy development relates directly to vitamin C's essential role in collagen synthesis. Vitamin C serves as a cofactor for the enzymes prolyl hydroxylase and lysyl hydroxylase, which are necessary for stabilizing the collagen triple helix structure. Without adequate vitamin C, collagen cannot form properly, and existing collagen structures begin to break down. Since collagen provides structural support throughout the body in blood vessel walls, joint cartilage, bone matrix, skin, and gum tissue, the effects of deficiency are widespread. Blood vessels become fragile and leak, joints lose cushioning and become painful, bones weaken, and wound healing fails. The immune system also suffers, as vitamin C supports white blood cell function and antibody production.

Early warning signs of scurvy in guinea pigs are subtle and easily missed, particularly since guinea pigs instinctively hide signs of weakness or illness. Initial symptoms may include slight reluctance to move, with guinea pigs spending more time resting and less time exploring their environment. A mild decrease in appetite may occur, though many guinea pigs continue eating relatively normally in early deficiency. The coat may begin to lose its healthy luster, appearing slightly dull or rough compared to normal. Some guinea pigs become quieter, vocalizing less than usual. These vague early signs often progress for days to weeks before more recognizable symptoms develop.

Common symptoms of established scurvy become increasingly apparent as deficiency progresses. Joint pain and swelling, particularly affecting the knees and wrists, cause an abnormal hopping gait and reluctance to walk. Guinea pigs may cry out when handled or when attempting to move due to joint discomfort. Generalized weakness develops, with affected guinea pigs having difficulty supporting their body weight. Rough, unkempt coat and dry, flaky skin reflect collagen deterioration in the integument. Weight loss occurs as eating becomes difficult and uncomfortable. Teeth may become loose as supporting structures weaken.

Behavioral changes in scurvy-affected guinea pigs reflect their pain, weakness, and declining overall condition. Severe lethargy develops, with guinea pigs remaining in one position for extended periods and showing reluctance to move even for food. Affected animals may vocalize when touched or moved, indicating the pain they experience. Social withdrawal occurs as guinea pigs lack the energy for normal interactions with cage mates. Hiding behavior increases as the instinct to conceal weakness becomes pronounced. Some guinea pigs become irritable or defensive when approached, a dramatic change from normally social behavior.

Physical signs of scurvy provide important diagnostic clues when examining affected guinea pigs. Swollen, painful joints, especially the stifles and carpi, may be visibly enlarged and warm to touch. Subcutaneous hemorrhages appear as bruise-like discolorations under the skin, particularly noticeable in areas with less fur. Gums become swollen, reddened, and may bleed spontaneously or with minimal contact. Teeth may appear loose within inflamed gum tissue. Petechiae, small pinpoint hemorrhages, may be visible on gums, skin, or mucous membranes. The overall posture is hunched and reluctant, with guinea pigs positioning themselves to minimize joint stress.

Symptom progression in untreated scurvy follows a devastating course as collagen throughout the body continues to break down. Joint damage worsens to the point where guinea pigs cannot walk and remain stationary in their enclosure. Internal hemorrhaging may occur in various organs and body cavities. Bones become fragile and may fracture with minimal trauma. The immune system fails increasingly, and secondary infections develop. Wounds do not heal, and even minor injuries become serious. Severe anemia develops from blood loss and impaired red blood cell production. Without intervention, death results from organ failure, sepsis, or hemorrhage.

Emergency symptoms requiring immediate veterinary care include inability to walk or stand, complete refusal to eat for more than eight to twelve hours, visible bleeding from gums or other sites, extreme lethargy with minimal response to stimulation, difficulty breathing, and collapse. Guinea pigs showing signs of severe pain, including teeth grinding, hunched frozen posture, and vocalization when touched, need emergency evaluation. Any suspected scurvy case should be treated urgently, as this condition is entirely treatable but progresses rapidly to life-threatening stages when ignored. The combination of scurvy with secondary infections can prove fatal within days.

Initial examination by an exotic veterinarian experienced with guinea pigs is essential for diagnosing scurvy. The veterinarian takes a detailed history, specifically asking about diet, vitamin C supplementation practices, and the duration and progression of symptoms. Physical examination reveals characteristic findings including joint swelling and pain on manipulation, particularly affecting the knees and wrists. Oral examination often shows swollen, reddened, or bleeding gums. The veterinarian assesses body condition, coat quality, and checks for subcutaneous hemorrhages. Response to gentle joint palpation, including pain reactions and vocalization, provides important diagnostic information.

Diagnostic tests can support the diagnosis of scurvy, though the condition is often diagnosed clinically based on history and physical findings. Blood tests may show anemia from hemorrhage and impaired red cell production. In severe cases, blood chemistry may reveal other abnormalities reflecting organ involvement. Plasma ascorbic acid levels can be measured to confirm vitamin C deficiency, though this test is not always readily available and results may take time. Radiographs may show changes in bone density and joint structure, with characteristic findings in the growth plates of young guinea pigs. Diagnosis is frequently presumptive based on clinical signs and dietary history, confirmed by response to treatment.

Differential diagnosis is important because several conditions share symptoms with scurvy. Bacterial infections can cause joint swelling and pain, though typically affecting single joints rather than multiple joints symmetrically. Traumatic injuries may cause lameness and pain that could be mistaken for scurvy. Other metabolic bone diseases, including calcium and phosphorus imbalances, affect bones and mobility. Arthritis from various causes produces joint pain and mobility issues. Dental disease from other causes may present with oral abnormalities. Neoplasia affecting bones or joints can cause similar symptoms in older guinea pigs. The veterinarian considers these possibilities while noting that the constellation of symptoms in scurvy is relatively characteristic.

Confirmation of scurvy and severity assessment determines the appropriate treatment approach. Diagnosis is confirmed by the combination of consistent clinical signs, dietary history revealing inadequate vitamin C intake, and response to vitamin C supplementation. Severity is assessed based on the extent of symptoms, with mild cases showing only decreased activity and subtle joint stiffness, moderate cases displaying obvious lameness and oral changes, and severe cases presenting with hemorrhage, inability to walk, and systemic illness. The presence of secondary complications including infections or severe anemia affects prognosis and treatment intensity. This comprehensive assessment guides decisions about outpatient versus hospital treatment and expected recovery timeline.

Emergency and immediate treatment for severe scurvy focuses on rapidly restoring vitamin C levels while providing supportive care for a compromised animal. Vitamin C supplementation begins immediately, typically administered by injection to ensure rapid absorption in guinea pigs that may not be eating. Injectable ascorbic acid at doses of fifty to one hundred milligrams per kilogram provides immediate availability. Hospitalization may be necessary for severely affected guinea pigs requiring intensive monitoring and supportive care. Fluid therapy addresses dehydration and supports cardiovascular function in animals weakened by hemorrhage. Pain management with guinea pig-safe analgesics such as meloxicam provides comfort and encourages movement and eating.

Medical management of scurvy centers on adequate vitamin C supplementation combined with dietary correction for long-term prevention. Oral vitamin C supplementation continues after initial stabilization, with liquid vitamin C supplements administered directly by mouth being most reliable. Daily supplementation of fifty to one hundred milligrams continues until recovery is complete and then maintains at twenty-five to fifty milligrams daily for prevention. If secondary bacterial infections have developed, appropriate antibiotics are prescribed. It is absolutely critical that only guinea pig-safe antibiotics are used, as penicillin, amoxicillin, and cephalosporins are fatal to guinea pigs. Safe options include trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, enrofloxacin, and chloramphenicol.

Surgical intervention is not typically part of scurvy treatment, as the condition responds to medical management. However, complications arising from scurvy may occasionally require surgical attention. Severe dental disease with loose teeth may require dental procedures once the guinea pig is stabilized with vitamin C supplementation. Abscesses developing secondary to immune compromise may need surgical drainage. In rare cases, significant hemorrhage might require intervention. Any surgical procedures should be delayed if possible until vitamin C levels are restored and the guinea pig is stable, as wound healing is severely impaired in vitamin C deficiency.

Supportive care is crucial for scurvy recovery and often determines whether guinea pigs survive severe deficiency. Syringe feeding with critical care formulas ensures nutrition when guinea pigs are not eating independently, and these formulas can be supplemented with liquid vitamin C. Keeping food and water easily accessible minimizes the painful movement required for eating and drinking. Soft bedding reduces pressure on painful joints. Warmth helps guinea pigs conserve energy for healing. Gentle handling minimizes pain while maintaining the human-animal bond. Maintaining social contact with bonded cage mates provides emotional support, though ensuring the sick guinea pig can access resources without competition may require temporary modifications.

Alternative and complementary approaches support conventional scurvy treatment. Offering high-vitamin-C vegetables including bell peppers, particularly red and yellow varieties, parsley, and dark leafy greens provides dietary vitamin C alongside supplementation. Fresh vegetables should be offered daily and consumed promptly before vitamin C degrades. Ensuring unlimited timothy hay maintains digestive health even when pellet consumption is reduced. Probiotics may support gut health during recovery. Gentle range-of-motion exercises as the guinea pig begins healing may help restore joint function. Environmental modifications reducing stress support immune function and overall recovery.

Treatment decisions for scurvy are relatively straightforward compared to many conditions, as vitamin C supplementation is essential and effective. The primary considerations involve treatment intensity based on severity, choice of supplementation route and dose, management of secondary complications, and supportive care intensity. Severely affected guinea pigs may require hospitalization initially, while mild cases can often be managed at home with oral supplementation and dietary changes. Owner commitment to ongoing supplementation determines long-term success, making education about guinea pig vitamin C requirements essential for preventing recurrence. The excellent response to treatment in most cases makes aggressive intervention worthwhile even for seriously ill guinea pigs.

Recovery timeline for scurvy varies with severity but is generally encouraging given prompt, appropriate treatment. Guinea pigs with mild deficiency may show improvement within just a few days of vitamin C supplementation, with increased activity and appetite apparent quickly. Moderate cases typically require one to two weeks before significant improvement in joint pain and mobility becomes evident. Severe cases with extensive tissue damage may need four to eight weeks for substantial recovery, and some residual effects may persist. Improvements in gum health and coat condition take longer to become apparent, as tissue regeneration requires weeks to months. Most guinea pigs make excellent recoveries if treatment begins before permanent damage occurs.

Post-treatment care is essential for complete recovery and long-term health maintenance. Continued vitamin C supplementation at maintenance doses of twenty-five to fifty milligrams daily must continue indefinitely, as guinea pigs will always require dietary vitamin C. Dietary review and correction ensures the guinea pig receives appropriate nutrition going forward, including high-quality pellets and daily vitamin-C-rich vegetables. Follow-up veterinary appointments assess recovery progress and adjust treatment as needed. Weight monitoring tracks nutritional status. Gentle exercise encouragement helps restore joint function and muscle strength as the guinea pig feels better. Ongoing attention to vitamin C provision prevents recurrence.

Prognosis factors for scurvy recovery include how quickly treatment was initiated, the severity of tissue damage at diagnosis, the guinea pig's age and overall health, and owner compliance with ongoing supplementation. Guinea pigs treated early in deficiency have excellent prognoses for complete recovery with no lasting effects. Those with moderate damage typically recover well but may have slightly longer recovery periods. Severe cases with extensive joint damage, significant hemorrhage, or secondary infections face more guarded prognoses, though many still improve substantially. Young, otherwise healthy guinea pigs generally recover more quickly and completely than elderly animals with other health challenges.

Long-term outlook for guinea pigs recovering from scurvy depends entirely on maintaining adequate vitamin C intake for the remainder of their lives. Most recovered guinea pigs can enjoy normal quality of life and typical lifespan with appropriate nutrition. Some guinea pigs with severe joint damage may have residual stiffness or reduced mobility that persists despite treatment. Owners must understand that scurvy is not a one-time problem but a constant risk requiring daily attention to prevention. With proper ongoing care, recurrence is completely preventable, and guinea pigs can thrive for years after recovery. Education about vitamin C requirements is perhaps the most important aspect of long-term management.

Primary prevention of scurvy requires daily provision of adequate vitamin C through diet and supplementation. Guinea pigs should receive twenty-five to fifty milligrams of vitamin C daily through a combination of sources. High-quality guinea pig pellets fortified with vitamin C provide a baseline, but pellet vitamin C content declines rapidly after manufacture and bag opening. Direct oral supplementation with liquid vitamin C or chewable vitamin C tablets formulated for guinea pigs provides reliable, measurable intake. Never rely on vitamin C added to water bottles, as the vitamin degrades within hours in water and actual consumption is impossible to measure.

Environmental prevention strategies protect vitamin C sources from degradation and support overall health. Store pellets properly in cool, dry conditions in sealed containers, and use within thirty to sixty days of opening. Purchase pellets with clear manufacturing dates and use before the vitamin C expires. Keep fresh vegetables refrigerated until serving and discard any that wilt or age. Minimize stress through appropriate housing, as stress increases vitamin C utilization. Ensure adequate enclosure space, appropriate temperature, and social housing to reduce stress-related vitamin C depletion.

Dietary prevention involves selecting and offering foods rich in bioavailable vitamin C. Bell peppers, particularly red, yellow, and orange varieties, are among the richest vegetable sources of vitamin C and are well-accepted by most guinea pigs. Parsley, cilantro, and dark leafy greens including kale and mustard greens provide significant vitamin C. Offering a variety of vitamin-C-rich vegetables daily ensures intake even if the guinea pig refuses particular items. Serve vegetables fresh rather than cooked, as cooking destroys vitamin C. Providing approximately one cup of vegetables daily per guinea pig supports vitamin C requirements alongside supplementation.

Health maintenance through regular veterinary care supports scurvy prevention and early detection of any developing deficiency. Annual wellness examinations allow assessment of overall health and discussion of diet and supplementation practices. Veterinarians can identify subtle early signs of vitamin C deficiency that owners might miss. During periods of illness, surgery, or stress, veterinarians may recommend increased vitamin C supplementation to prevent deficiency. Regular weight monitoring helps identify problems early. Prompt treatment of any illness reduces the increased vitamin C demands that accompany health challenges.

Early intervention strategies help prevent progression from subclinical deficiency to clinical scurvy. Learning to recognize subtle early signs such as slight reluctance to move, decreased activity, or minor coat changes prompts review of vitamin C provision. Responding to any period of increased stress or illness by boosting vitamin C supplementation provides insurance against increased requirements. Monitoring appetite and behavior following any changes to diet or routine identifies potential problems. Keeping emergency vitamin C supplements on hand allows immediate response to any concern. Erring on the side of supplementation is safe, as vitamin C toxicity is essentially impossible in guinea pigs, while deficiency is common and dangerous.

Daily management of guinea pigs recovering from or at risk for scurvy requires consistent attention to vitamin C provision and overall nutrition. Establishing a daily supplementation routine ensures vitamin C is never forgotten, with many owners incorporating supplementation into morning feeding rituals. Directly dosing liquid or tablet vitamin C into the guinea pig's mouth provides the most reliable delivery. Measuring and recording daily supplement doses helps track intake accurately. Offering vitamin-C-rich vegetables as a daily practice provides supplemental intake and encourages healthy eating patterns. Monitoring food and water consumption helps identify any problems that might affect nutritional status.

Home environment considerations support scurvy prevention and recovery. Proper food storage, including sealed containers for pellets in cool, dry locations, preserves vitamin C content. Refrigeration of vegetables until serving maintains their nutritional value. Multiple feeding stations in multi-guinea-pig enclosures ensure all animals can access food and vegetables. Clean, comfortable housing reduces stress that increases vitamin C needs. Stable temperature maintenance within the optimal range of sixty-five to seventy-five degrees Fahrenheit prevents temperature stress. Providing hiding spots and maintaining consistent routines further reduces stress-related vitamin C depletion.

Quality of life maintenance for guinea pigs with scurvy history involves balancing prevention efforts with enjoyable daily life. Regular interaction and handling maintains socialization while allowing daily health assessment. Appropriate enrichment encourages activity and engagement without excessive stress. Maintaining social bonds with compatible cage mates supports emotional health, as guinea pigs are highly social animals that suffer in isolation. Monitoring for any recurrence of symptoms enables early intervention if vitamin C status becomes compromised. Celebrating recovery milestones and recognizing improved health reinforces the importance of ongoing prevention efforts.

Ongoing monitoring and care allows early detection of any problems with vitamin C status. Weekly weight checks track nutritional status objectively. Observing mobility and activity levels identifies any joint stiffness suggesting early deficiency. Checking gum color and condition periodically reveals oral changes before they become severe. Monitoring coat quality and skin condition provides additional assessment parameters. Any changes in appetite, energy, or behavior warrant attention and possible veterinary consultation. Keeping detailed records helps identify patterns and trends that might indicate developing problems.

Caregiver support and resources help guinea pig owners maintain successful long-term scurvy prevention. Understanding that vitamin C supplementation is a permanent, daily responsibility prevents lapses in care. Connecting with guinea pig communities provides practical tips for reliable supplementation and vegetable selection. Establishing a relationship with an exotic veterinarian ensures access to guidance when questions arise. Having multiple vitamin C supplementation options available, including backup supplies, prevents any gap in provision. Educating all family members involved in guinea pig care ensures consistency even when primary caregivers are unavailable. Recognizing the serious consequences of scurvy reinforces commitment to prevention as a non-negotiable aspect of guinea pig care.

All guinea pig breeds face identical risk for scurvy due to the species-wide genetic inability to synthesize vitamin C. This metabolic limitation affects every guinea pig regardless of breed, coat type, size, or lineage. Whether caring for an American, Abyssinian, Peruvian, Silkie, Teddy, or any other breed, vitamin C supplementation and dietary provision are equally essential. The mutation affecting the L-gulonolactone oxidase gene occurred in an ancient ancestor of modern guinea pigs and is now fixed in the entire species. Breed selection has no influence on scurvy susceptibility, making prevention a universal requirement for all guinea pig owners.

While breed does not affect basic scurvy susceptibility, certain conditions and life stages elevate risk regardless of breed. Growing juveniles have higher vitamin C requirements than adults and develop deficiency more quickly when intake is inadequate. Pregnant sows require increased vitamin C, and deficiency during pregnancy can cause reproductive failure and fetal developmental problems. Nursing sows have elevated requirements for milk production. Senior guinea pigs may have reduced appetite or absorption issues that increase deficiency risk even with standard dietary provision. Guinea pigs of any breed with concurrent illness have increased vitamin C requirements and may need supplementation adjustments.

Screening and prevention recommendations apply equally across all guinea pig breeds. Every guinea pig should receive reliable daily vitamin C supplementation regardless of breed type. Breeders should ensure all breeding stock receives adequate vitamin C, with attention to increased needs during pregnancy and lactation. New guinea pig owners should receive education about vitamin C requirements at the time of adoption, regardless of the breed being acquired. Veterinary examinations should include discussion of vitamin C provision for all guinea pig patients. The universal nature of this requirement means breed-specific screening is unnecessary, but individual attention to each guinea pig's vitamin C status is essential.

Commonly co-occurring conditions with scurvy reflect both shared nutritional causes and consequences of vitamin C deficiency. Other nutritional deficiencies often accompany scurvy when overall diet quality is poor, including protein deficiency, other vitamin deficiencies, and mineral imbalances. Dental disease frequently co-occurs, both because vitamin C deficiency weakens tooth-supporting structures and because dental problems may reduce food intake contributing to deficiency. Respiratory infections commonly develop secondary to the immune suppression caused by vitamin C deficiency. Skin conditions including dermatitis and poor wound healing reflect the collagen synthesis impairment central to scurvy.

Conditions with similar symptoms require differentiation from scurvy for accurate diagnosis. Bacterial arthritis can cause joint pain and swelling but typically affects single joints asymmetrically rather than multiple joints symmetrically. Traumatic injuries produce lameness that might be confused with scurvy-related joint pain. Pododermatitis, or bumblefoot, causes foot pain and reluctance to walk. Other metabolic bone diseases affecting calcium, phosphorus, or vitamin D can cause bone and joint symptoms. Oral infections from other causes may produce gum swelling and bleeding. The constellation of symptoms, dietary history, and response to vitamin C supplementation help distinguish scurvy from these other conditions.

Potential complications arising from scurvy extend the health impact when the condition goes untreated or treatment is delayed. Secondary bacterial infections are common due to immune suppression, including respiratory infections, skin infections, and abscesses. Severe anemia develops from hemorrhage and impaired blood cell production, potentially becoming life-threatening. Permanent joint damage may result from prolonged inflammation and cartilage deterioration. Bone fractures may occur due to weakened bone structure. Death results from advanced untreated scurvy through hemorrhage, infection, or organ failure. These complications emphasize the importance of prevention and prompt treatment when scurvy is suspected.