Sara (34-year-old female) presented to the outpatient clinic…
Sara (34-year-old female) presented to the outpatient clinic with complaints of fatigue, and easy bruising over the past two months. She also noted that minor cuts on her hands seemed to heal more slowly than usual. The patient denied severe pain, joint swelling, or significant weight loss. Medical History: No significant past medical history. Non-smoker and consumes alcohol socially. Works as an office assistant with limited physical activity. No regular supplementation of vitamins or minerals. Dietary History: Meals consist mostly of processed foods, with minimal intake of fresh fruits and vegetables. Frequently skips breakfast and consumes a fast-food lunch. Drinks coffee and soda but rarely water or juices. Clinical Examination: Vitals: Within normal limits. Skin: Small petechial hemorrhages on the forearms and mild ecchymosis on the legs. Oral Exam: Mild gingival swelling with occasional bleeding upon probing. General Appearance: No signs of severe distress. Laboratory Findings: Vitamin C (plasma ascorbate): 0.3 mg/dL (normal range: 0.4–2.0 mg/dL). Hemoglobin and hematocrit: Within normal limits. Platelet count: Normal. Prothrombin time (PT): Normal. Other vitamins (e.g., B12, folate): Within normal limits. What is Sara’s most likely diagnosis?
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