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Zinc-induced copper deficiency in a coin swallower
H A Hassan1, C Netchvolodoff, J P Raufman
1Division of Digestive Diseases and Nutrition, John L. McClellan Memorial Veterans Hospital, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, USA.
The American Journal of Gastroenterology
|October 29, 2000
Summary
Acquired copper deficiency anemia is rare in humans. A case study revealed zinc-induced copper deficiency anemia in a man ingesting coins, highlighting a rare cause of unexplained anemia.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Toxicology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Acquired copper deficiency anemia is an uncommon condition in humans.
- Metal pica, the ingestion of non-food items, can lead to toxic metal exposure.
- Anemia is a common symptom that requires thorough investigation into its underlying cause.
Observation:
- A 58-year-old man presented with symptomatic anemia.
- The patient exhibited metal pica, with a specific craving for coins.
- Laboratory workup revealed copper deficiency.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with zinc-induced copper deficiency.
- Leaching of zinc from ingested pennies was identified as the cause of copper deficiency.
- This case links metal pica, specifically coin ingestion, to unexplained anemia via zinc toxicity.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers should consider zinc-induced copper deficiency in patients with unexplained anemia and a history of ingesting zinc-containing metals.
- This case underscores the importance of evaluating environmental exposures in the diagnosis of nutritional deficiencies.
- Early identification and intervention are crucial for managing anemia caused by metal toxicity.