A Case of Pellagra in an Aged Woman Living Alone

Abstract

We report a 77-year-old female with pellagra. Two months before her initial visit, infiltrative erythema appeared on dorsum of her hands and feet. The erythema was well-demarcated, symmetric and asymptomatic. Topical corticosteroid was not effective. Dementia, appetite loss and numbness of her extremities were apparent. She was admitted to our hospital for further treatment. Routine biochemical and hematological studies revealed anemia and hypoproteinemia. Subsequent blood tests confirmed deficiencies in nicotinamide, tryptophan, several vitamins and minerals. Vitamin supplements and diet adjustment quickly controlled her symptoms. She was diagnosed with pellagra due to inadequate diet. Social isolation seemed to be the underlying cause of this case.