Pellagra

Welcome to the Pellagra subsection of the Dermatology for the MSRA course.

This section is designed to provide comprehensive and structured learning materials to help you understand and master the topic of Pellagra for the MSRA.

Pellagra is a condition caused by a deficiency of niacin (vitamin B3) and requires prompt diagnosis and management. This section provides the essential information needed to understand and manage this condition effectively.

Resources for Pellagra:

Pellagra Revision Notes for MSRA:
Detailed and concise traditional revision notes covering all essential aspects of Pellagra, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. These notes follow UK NICE guidelines and are displayed in a table format for easy recall.
Pellagra Flashcards for MSRA:
Interactive flashcards to help you memorise key facts and concepts about Pellagra. Perfect for quick reviews and reinforcing your knowledge.
Pellagra Accordion Q&A Notes for the MSRA:
A unique feature where you can test your understanding of Pellagra with question-and-answer style revision notes. This format promotes active learning and retention of important information.
Pellagra Rapid Fire Quiz for MSRA:
A short quiz designed to test your knowledge and recall of Pellagra concepts. This is a great way to assess your progress and pinpoint areas needing further review.

Key Points about Pellagra

Definition: Pellagra is a condition resulting from a deficiency of niacin (vitamin B3) or its precursor tryptophan. It is classically characterised by the “4 Ds”: dermatitis, diarrhoea, dementia, and, if left untreated, death.
Causes: The primary cause is malnutrition, particularly in populations with a diet lacking in niacin or tryptophan. Other causes include alcoholism, malabsorption syndromes, and certain medications like isoniazid.
Symptoms: The main symptoms include photosensitive dermatitis, diarrhoea, and neurological changes such as confusion, depression, and memory loss. Skin lesions are typically symmetrical, affecting areas exposed to sunlight.
Investigations: Diagnosis is clinical, based on the presence of characteristic symptoms. Blood tests to assess niacin levels may be performed, and dietary history should be reviewed.
Management: Treatment involves niacin supplementation (nicotinamide or nicotinic acid), and dietary improvement to include niacin-rich foods (e.g., poultry, fish, fortified grains). In severe cases, hospitalisation may be necessary for intravenous therapy.
Complications: If left untreated, Pellagra can lead to severe neurological decline and death. Early treatment generally leads to a full recovery.

We encourage you to use these resources for optimal revision and explore other related topics for a thorough preparation.

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Free MSRA Podcast: Pellagra

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3ihXMMljy7jrXPAPndj4qG?si=ijUFDhR2S_qm0yxjjBytRw