What are the classic symptoms associated with Pellagra?

Pellagra is a nutritional deficiency disease caused by a lack of niacin (vitamin B3) in the diet. The classic symptoms of pellagra are often referred to as the "four D's": dementia, dermatitis, diarrhea, and death.

Dementia refers to cognitive impairment that can arise from prolonged niacin deficiency. Dermatitis typically manifests as a symmetrical, scaly rash on areas of the skin exposed to sunlight, which is a key characteristic of the condition. Diarrhea indicates gastrointestinal distress, which is common in individuals with pellagra due to the body's inability to absorb nutrients properly. Without intervention, these symptoms can progress, leading to death.

In the context of this question, the combination of these four symptoms is essential for identifying pellagra, which makes this answer accurate and reflective of the clinical picture associated with the deficiency. Understanding these symptoms is critical in both recognizing and treating pellagra in affected individuals.