Most animal species are able to synthesize vitamin C with the exception of the guniea pig, primates, the human, the flying fox and certain fish, including salmonids.  The smaller of these littermate guinea pigs in this image was fed a vitamin C deficient diet that reduced its feed intake and growth. A hopping-gait developed. Upon necropsy this guinea pig showed enlargement of the costochondral junctions, the junction of the rib to the sternum, (scorbutic rosary).  Deformity and swelling of the hind legs can also occur with separation of the epiphyseal cartilage from the shaft of the upper tibia.

Vitamin C deficiency in the guinea pig

Credit:

Digital Credit: Dr. Todd See

Publisher: North Carolina State University

Rights: Image Gallery user terms

Description: Most animal species are able to synthesize vitamin C with the exception of the guniea pig, primates, the human, the flying fox and certain fish, including salmonids. The smaller of these littermate guinea pigs in this image was fed a vitamin C deficient diet that reduced its feed intake and growth. A hopping-gait developed. Upon necropsy this guinea pig showed enlargement of the costochondral junctions, the junction of the rib to the sternum, (scorbutic rosary). Deformity and swelling of the hind legs can also occur with separation of the epiphyseal cartilage from the shaft of the upper tibia.

Resolution: 600x401

File Size: 135.26 KB