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[Zinc deficiency in mucoviscidosis]
C Mazzocchi1, J L Michel, V Chalencon
1Service de réanimation pédiatrique, CHRU de Saint-Etienne, hôpital Nord, Saint-Etienne, France.
Summary
Zinc deficiency can cause dermatitis in cystic fibrosis patients. Early diagnosis and zinc sulfate treatment rapidly resolved symptoms in a pediatric case, highlighting the importance of zinc supplementation.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Dermatology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder affecting multiple organs, including the digestive system.
- Zinc deficiency is a known complication in some CF patients due to malabsorption and malnutrition.
- Dermatitis, particularly resembling acrodermatitis enteropathica, can be a clinical manifestation of zinc deficiency.
Observation:
- A four-month-old infant with the digestive form of cystic fibrosis presented with dermatitis.
- The infant's dermatitis exhibited characteristics similar to acrodermatitis enteropathica.
- Early clinical recognition of the condition was crucial.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with zinc deficiency secondary to cystic fibrosis.
- Treatment with zinc sulfate led to a rapid and complete resolution of the dermatitis.
- The case underscores the link between zinc status and skin health in CF.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of monitoring zinc levels in pediatric cystic fibrosis patients.
- Prompt zinc supplementation can effectively manage zinc-deficiency-related dermatitis in CF.
- Further research into the prevalence and management of zinc deficiency in CF is warranted.