Indonesian Journal of Dental Medicine
Vol. 9 No. 1 (2026): Indonesian Journal of Dental Medicine

Management of scurvy in pediatric autism spectrum disorder patient: A case report: A Case Report

Anindyanari, Alocitta (Unknown)
Sari, Diah Ayu Purnama (Unknown)
Alvita, Delaneira (Unknown)
Wahluyo, Soegeng (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
12 Mar 2026

Abstract

Background: Scurvy is a disease caused by chronic vitamin C deficiency. It presents with non-specific early signs that can mimic other conditions, such as fatigue, mild fever, and is often followed by dermatologic and musculoskeletal symptoms, anemia, and gingival bleeding. Although rare in the pediatric population, recent studies have reported scurvy can occur in children at risk, including those with neurodevelopmental disorders like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and even healthy children with restricted or selective feeding. Purpose: This paper aims to report the dental management of scurvy in a pediatric patient with ASD. Case Management: A six-year-old male with ASD was referred to RSGM Universitas Airlangga due to persistent gingival swelling and bleeding for a week, along with pain in the lower limb and difficulty walking. The child’s diet lacked fruits and vegetables. Clinical and laboratory examinations revealed no signs of malignancy or bleeding disorder, though anemia was present. Empirical vitamin C supplementation was given, and oral debridement was performed. Improvements were observed within a week. Conclusion: Identifying scurvy can be challenging due to its nonspecific signs; however thorough history taking, mainly diet history, should be done along with clinical and supporting examinations, hence identification of scurvy can be done as early as possible, and timely treatment can be provided effectively and safely.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

IJDM

Publisher

Subject

Dentistry

Description

Indonesian Journal of Dental Medicine accepts original manuscripts in the many fields of dentistry, including research reports and literature reviews. The spread of fields include: Oral epidemiology, Oral health services research, Preventive dentistry, Oral health education and promotion, Clinical ...