Restoration of body stores of vitamin C is essential to achieve complete resolution of symptoms. Provision of a balanced and liberal diet to meet the nutritional needs of the patient aids in recovery. Supervising the diet to assure adequate intake of vitamin C intake ensures complete resolution and prevents recurrence. Provision of the required daily allowance of vitamin C in the diet or as a supplement prevents scurvy. Scurvy, if untreated, can be fatal and has been associated with sudden death.
Morbidity associated with hemorrhages depends on the site of involvement.
Subperiosteal hemorrhages cause pain and tenderness resulting in pseudoparalysis. Loss of function at the site of the hemorrhage and anemia are typical sequelae of the hemorrhages observed in scurvy. Typically, scurvy carries an excellent prognosis if diagnosed and treated appropriately. The bony pathology associated with scurvy could potentially be confused with physical abuse of a child. A good dietary history and response to treatment with vitamin C establishes diagnosis and clears confusion.