Scurvy. Clinical photograph of the mouth of a person suffering from scurvy, a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C (ascorbic acid), showing swollen and inflamed gums. Scurvy results from a diet that is devoid of fresh fruit & vegetables. Swollen and bleeding gums are initial symptoms and may be followed by bruising of the skin (subcutaneous bleeding) and the opening of previously healed wounds. A prolonged deficiency may cause death. Scurvy responds to treatment with vitamin C.