A Note on the Temporary Spontaneous Disappearance of Typical “Beriberi” Symptoms in Pigeons Fed on Diets Deficient in Vitamin B

Abstract

Out of 19 pigeons receiving a synthetic ration deficient in vitamin B [see preceding entry], 15 developed unmistakable "beriberi" symptoms. Temporary spontaneous cures (remission of nervous seizures, regain of muscular control and appetite) were observed in 9 of the birds. Such cures lasted 2-10 days, after which the pigeons either died without showing any symptoms or succumbed in a 2nd attack of "beriberi." No spontaneous cures were observed in a control batch of 24 pigeons kept on polished rice under otherwise identical conditions. Pigeons fed synthetic diets should not be used for the curative test.