METABOLISM OF VITAMIN C IN RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Abstract
On the basis of the occurrence of gross and microscopic changes in the articular tissues of guinea pigs subjected to subacute or chronic scurvy, either alone or in combination with infection, we made the suggestion that vitamin C deficiency may be a significant contributory mechanism in the etiology of some cases of rheumatoid or atrophic arthritis.1 Brief but suggestive clinical evidence was presented at that time. Subsequently we have endeavored to investigate the problem thoroughly in the clinic. Detailed dietary histories were taken in as many cases as possible. What we consider to be a deficient intake of vitamin C has been a common though not universal finding. A detailed analysis of these records will be made and published later. The belief that nutritional factors may be important in this disease is not new. Many writers have stressed the importance of nutrition. Hall2 said: "We are constantly seeing