Definition of "avitaminosis" [avitaminosis]

• A disease, such as scurvy, beriberi, or pellagra, caused by deficiency of one or more essential vitamins. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "Drinking affects several body processes: it gives general intoxication, dehydration, changes electrolyte, acid-alkali, protein and brain neiromediator balances, creates avitaminosis."
• "For POWs detained for 30 days or more, such eligibility covers any of the following illnesses that are found at least 10 percent disabling: avitaminosis; beriberi; chronic dysentery; cirrhosis of the liver; helminthiasis; irritable bowel syndrome and malnutrition, including associated optic atrophy."