What bone defect is characteristic of scurvy?

Scurvy is primarily associated with a deficiency of vitamin C (ascorbic acid), which is essential for the synthesis of collagen, a critical protein in the formation and maintenance of connective tissues, including bone. When there is inadequate vitamin C, the body cannot effectively produce collagen, leading to defective osteoid formation. Osteoid is the unmineralized, organic portion of the bone matrix, composed mostly of collagen.

In scurvy, the lack of collagen synthesis impairs the mineralization process, which is the mineral deposition that normally occurs during bone formation. As a result, bones become weaker and more susceptible to fractures and deformities. This inadequate mineralization is a hallmark of scurvy and is most evident in developing bones, particularly in children who are actively growing.

While osteoid formation is affected by vitamin C deficiency, the specific defect characteristic of scurvy is the inability to mineralize the osteoid properly, leading to the classic signs and symptoms associated with the condition, such as bleeding gums and weakened bones. Hence, mineralization is the most accurate description of the bone defect seen in patients with scurvy.