Rosh Pediatrics Practice Exam

In a case of suspected scurvy, what finding would you expect in a patient?

1. Gait abnormality

2. Night blindness

3. Petechiae in mucous membranes

4. Rickets

The correct answer is: Petechiae in mucous membranes

In cases of suspected scurvy, a hallmark finding is the presence of petechiae, particularly in the mucous membranes. Scurvy is caused by a deficiency of vitamin C (ascorbic acid), which is essential for collagen synthesis, among other functions. This deficiency leads to a breakdown of connective tissues, resulting in symptoms such as bleeding and bruising. Petechiae are small, pinpoint red or purple spots that occur when tiny blood vessels (capillaries) break, allowing blood to seep into the skin or mucous membranes. Due to the compromised integrity of blood vessels in scurvy, individuals often exhibit these petechial hemorrhages in various locations such as around the mouth, in the conjunctiva, or even in the oral cavity. While gait abnormalities may occur in a variety of conditions, they are not a direct feature of scurvy. Night blindness, which is related to vitamin A deficiency, is not associated with scurvy. Rickets, caused by vitamin D deficiency, has different manifestations, such as skeletal deformities and bone pain, that do not overlap with the symptoms of scurvy. Thus, the identification of petechiae in mucous membranes stands out as a quintessential sign of sc