The Hair Loss Encyclopedia
disease from niacin deficiency causing dermatitis, diarrhea, dementia
Pellagra is a disease caused by a deficiency of niacin (vitamin B3) or its precursor tryptophan. It is characterized by the "three Ds": dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia, and if left untreated, it can be fatal. This condition often arises in populations with diets heavily reliant on corn, which lacks adequate niacin and tryptophan unless properly processed.