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| Definition: |
A disease caused by a deficient diet or failure of the body to absorb niacin (one of the B complex vitamins) or an amino acid (tryptophan). Common in certain parts of the world (in people consuming large quantities of corn), the disease is characterized by scaly skin sores, diarrhea, mucosal changes, and mental symptoms (especially a schizophrenia-likedementia). It may develop after gastrointestinal diseases or alcoholism.
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| Alternative Names: |
Vitamin deficiency - niacin; Deficiency - niacin
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Review Date: 10/4/2001
Reviewed By: Victoria Kennedy, RN, A.D.A.M. editorial.
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