Alternative Names & Classifications:
Niacin Deficiency (CLINICAL)
Description
Pellagra arises from a lack of dietary niacin or its precursor, the amino acid tryptophan, leading to failures in cellular energy metabolism. It was historically prevalent in populations relying heavily on untreated corn as a staple, and today is seen in severe alcoholism or malabsorption syndromes. It is classically defined by the "three Ds": dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia.