rhizoverbBeta
DictionarypellagraNiacin-deficiency disease
noun

pellagra

puh-LAH-gruh/pəˈlɑːɡrə/

A disease caused by a lack of niacin.

A severe lack of niacin in the diet can cause pellagra.

A non-graphic medical view of symmetrical rough reddish dermatitis on adult hands, a bowl of niacin-rich food and vitamin bottle nearby, no text or diagnosis advice.
Etymology
pellagraItalianpellagra

The Italian disease name may come from “rough skin,” describing a characteristic symptom. Another proposed analysis combines Latin “skin” with Greek “seizure,” so the name’s exact formation remains uncertain.

In context

Homegrown Handgathered13:05
but you don't get pellagra from eating corn unless corn is the only thing that you're eating and you're not getting vitamin B from any other source
Harvesting Heirloom Corn & Making Tortillas (Wood-ash Nixtamalization)

More examples

  • Doctors treat pellagra with niacin supplements and a balanced diet.
  • Without treatment, pellagra can damage the skin and nervous system.
  • The doctor suspects pellagra because of the patient's diet and symptoms.