Copper deficiency causes reversible myelodysplasia

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Nutritional Medicine
• Clinical Diagnostics

Background:

• Copper deficiency is an underrecognized cause of hematologic abnormalities.
• Anemia and neutropenia can be challenging to diagnose without considering copper status.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of copper deficiency in patients with unexplained anemia and neutropenia.
• To evaluate the efficacy of copper supplementation in resolving these hematologic conditions.

Main Methods:

• Serum copper levels were measured in patients with unexplained anemia, neutropenia, or myelodysplasia.
• Eight copper-deficient patients were identified and treated with oral copper gluconate.
• Hematologic parameters and bone marrow histology were monitored post-treatment.

Main Results:

• Seven of eight patients had normochromic, normocytic anemia and neutropenia.
• All treated patients showed rapid hematologic improvement, with seven achieving complete remission within weeks.
• One patient demonstrated normalization of bone marrow dysplasia after copper replacement.

Conclusions:

• Copper deficiency should be routinely screened for in patients presenting with unexplained anemia and neutropenia or myelodysplasia.
• Oral copper supplementation is an effective treatment for copper deficiency-induced hematologic abnormalities.
• Gastrointestinal malabsorption was a common cause of copper deficiency in this cohort.