Possible scurvy in the prisoners of Old Quebec: A re-evaluation of evidence in adult skeletal remains

Scurvy is known to have been present in many past communities but recognising the condition in adult skeletal remains poses significant challenges. Fifty skeletons of Protestant prisoners who died between 1746 and 1747 were excavated in 1986-1987 from the walls of Old Quebec, Canada. Documentary sources indicate scurvy was present, and those considered the most likely candidates (n=9) were selected for re-evaluation using recently published …