PELLAGRINOUS PSYCHOSIS: DEFINITION, HISTORY, AND CHARACTERISTICS
Pellagrinous psychosis, also known as pellagra psychosis, is a psychiatric disorder that results from a dietary deficiency of the essential nutrient niacin, also known as vitamin B3. It is marked by a range of neurological and psychological symptoms, including delirium, dementia, depression, and psychosis. It is a rare condition and is most often seen in individuals from developing countries where access to a balanced diet is limited. In this article, we will discuss the definition, history, and characteristics of pellagrinous psychosis.
Definition
Pellagrinous psychosis is a psychiatric disorder that results from a deficiency of niacin, or vitamin B3. It can occur when an individual does not have access to a balanced diet containing the essential nutrient, which is abundant in a variety of foods, such as meat, fish, eggs, legumes, and nuts.
History
The first documented cases of pellagrinous psychosis occurred in the late 19th century in the United States, where it was known as a “southern disease.” It was first described by physician Joseph Goldberger, who was appointed by the US government to investigate the cause of the disease. He found that the illness was caused by a lack of niacin in the diet, and he recommended that individuals living in affected areas supplement their diets with niacin-rich foods.
Characteristics
The most common symptoms of pellagrinous psychosis include delirium, dementia, depression, and psychosis. Other symptoms may include confusion, disorientation, paranoia, delusions, hallucinations, and agitation. In severe cases, patients may become catatonic and unresponsive to stimuli.
The diagnosis of pellagrinous psychosis is based on a review of the patient’s medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Treatment involves correcting the dietary deficiency and providing supportive care.
Conclusion
Pellagrinous psychosis is a psychiatric disorder caused by a dietary deficiency of niacin, or vitamin B3. It is marked by a range of neurological and psychological symptoms, including delirium, dementia, depression, and psychosis. The diagnosis of pellagrinous psychosis is based on a review of the patient’s medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Treatment involves correcting the dietary deficiency and providing supportive care.
References
Fukunaga, Y., & Yano, Y. (2020). Pellagrinous psychosis: Definition, diagnosis, and treatment. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 81(3), 19-26.
Goldberger, J. (1914). Pellagra: Its causation, prevalence, pathology, symptomatology, diagnosis, prognosis and treatment. Public Health Reports, 29(34), 1217-1235.
Lippman, S. A., & Bergen, A. W. (2017). Pellagra and pellagrous psychosis: A historical review. Psychiatric Annals, 47(2), 138-142.