News — pellagra

Pellagra may sound like a rare historical condition, but it's a serious nutritional disorder that still affects people around the world today. This disease is caused by a deficiency in niacin (vitamin B3) or tryptophan, an amino acid that helps the body produce niacin. While once rampant in parts of Europe and the southern United States during the early 20th century, pellagra can still arise in populations with limited access to balanced nutrition or due to certain medical conditions that affect nutrient absorption.

The hallmark signs of pellagra are often summed up by the "Four Ds": dermatitis, diarrhea, dementia, and—if left untreated—death. These symptoms reflect the devastating impact niacin deficiency can have on the skin, digestive tract, nervous system, and brain. In this article, we’ll explore the causes of pellagra, break down its classic symptoms, and offer insights on diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.