The Rapid Induction of Human Riboflavin Deficiency with Galactoflavin *

Abstract

Six human subjects were placed on semi-syntnetic riboflavin-deficient diets and were treated with the riboflavin analog, galactoflavin. Clinical manifestations of riboflavin deficiency were recognizable in each subject after 10 to 25 days of galactoflavin administration. The deficiency syndrome was characterized by sore throat, erythema of oral mucous membranes, cheilosis, angular stomatitis, glossitis, seborrhelc dermatitis of the face and ears, scratal dermatitis, dermatitis of the trunk and extremities, and anemia. These findings were completely reversed with riboflavin administration. The normocync normochromic anemia was associated with reticulo-cytopenia and pure red cell aplasia in the bone marrow. Abnormalities in iron metabolism were also noted. Riboflavin appeared to be essential for erythropoiesis. Galactoflavin was shown to deplete the body of riboflavin, which was excreted in the urine in large quantities. There was some evidence that galactoflavin-induced B2 deficiency was associated with antitumor effects.