Nicotinic acid:Deficiency ofnicotinic acid(also known asniacin), one of the B-complex vitamins, causespellagra.
Pellagra was known as the "diseaseof the four D's" -- dermatitis, diarrhea, dementia anddeath. The disease is specifically characterized by:
- Dermatitis: A rash on areas of theskinexposed to light ortraumaand ulcerations within themouth
- Diarrhea
- Dementia: Mental disorientation, confusion, delusions and depression
- Death, if untreated.
Pellagra, once a puzzle, was solved by Joseph Goldberger (1874-1929). ServinginthePublic HealthService, Dr. Goldberger proposed that pellagra was due to a nutritional deficiency and in 1915 began experiments with Mississippi prison inmates (who "volunteered" in return for full pardons). Dr. Goldberger fed them a poor diet he believed caused pellagra and within months, many developed the disease. Their symptoms of pellagra were reversed when meat, fresh vegetables and milk were added to theirdiet.
Niacin, Dr. Goldberger subsequently showed, was the principle that had this remarkable effect. A readily-available B vitamin, niacin cures pellagra and prevents it.
The name "pellagra" comes from the Italian "pelle", skin + "agra", rough = rough skin, referring to the skin problems in pellagra.
