Thomas M Brown1. 1. Psychosomatic Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Audie L. Murphy Memorial VAMC, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA. Thomas.brown5@va.gov
Abstract
BACKGROUND: In the United States, pellagra is infrequently reported. Yet this disorder does occur among malnourished persons. OBJECTIVE: The author seeks to clarify diagnosis and treatment. METHOD: The author describes various presentations and effects of this disorder. RESULTS: Knowledge of classic and atypical presentations can assist in making the diagnosis. The author presents two cases of pellagra that exemplify the classic and atypical presentations. CONCLUSION: The typically robust response of the disorder to physiologic doses of niacin can assist in confirming the diagnosis.
BACKGROUND: In the United States, pellagra is infrequently reported. Yet this disorder does occur among malnourished persons. OBJECTIVE: The author seeks to clarify diagnosis and treatment. METHOD: The author describes various presentations and effects of this disorder. RESULTS: Knowledge of classic and atypical presentations can assist in making the diagnosis. The author presents two cases of pellagra that exemplify the classic and atypical presentations. CONCLUSION: The typically robust response of the disorder to physiologic doses of niacin can assist in confirming the diagnosis.