A 72-year-old man is brought into the hospital by paramedics after he was found disoriented and wandering in the street. He has a past medical history of dementia, hypertension, and stroke. Physical examination reveals a disoriented, thin-appearing male. His gingivae are swollen and bleed easily. Ecchymoses are noted on his legs. The laboratory values are provided below: Which of the following is most likely responsible for this patient's ecchymoses?

Question

A 72-year-old man is brought into the hospital by paramedics after he was found disoriented and wandering in the street.  He has a past medical history of dementia, hypertension, and stroke.  Physical examination reveals a disoriented, thin-appearing male.  His gingivae are swollen and bleed easily.  Ecchymoses are noted on his legs.  The laboratory values are provided below:  Which of the following is most likely responsible for this patient's ecchymoses?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: Vitamin C deficiency (scurvy) is associated with coiled hair, perifollicular keratosis, hemorrhage, easy bruising, bleeding gums, and loose teeth.  The PT, PTT, and platelet count are normal.

A 72-Year-Old Man Is Brought into the Hospital by Paramedics After