noun
- Plural of pellagra; instances or cases of a disease caused by niacin (vitamin B3) deficiency, characterized by dermatitis, diarrhea, dementia, and other symptoms.
Usage: Medical term; Pellagra is the singular form; pellagras is the plural
Examples
- In the early 20th century, pellagras affected thousands of people in the southern United States.
- The doctor studied several cases of pellagras in the impoverished communities.
- Pellagras became less common after niacin was added to enriched grain products.
- Nutritionists worked to prevent pellagras by promoting diets rich in B vitamins.
- Historical records document the prevalence of pellagras during times of poor nutrition.