Zinc and skin: a brief summary.

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Dermatology
• Human Physiology

Background:

• Zinc is a vital trace element crucial for numerous biological functions, acting as a component in many metallo-enzymes.
• Zinc deficiency presents with a spectrum of clinical manifestations, ranging from severe symptoms resembling acrodermatitis enteropathica to milder, less characteristic signs.
• Mild hypozincemia (low serum zinc) is often underdiagnosed due to its subtle and non-specific presentation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the identification of clinical zinc deficiency, emphasizing the role of cutaneous lesions.
• To discuss the management strategies for zinc deficiency, including diagnostic approaches and therapeutic interventions.
• To highlight the importance of recognizing and addressing predisposing factors for zinc deficiency.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical presentations and diagnostic challenges associated with zinc deficiency.
• Evaluation of laboratory tests and the significance of therapeutic response as a diagnostic tool.
• Discussion of zinc supplementation and its efficacy in resolving skin manifestations.

Main Results:

• Clinical presentation of zinc deficiency is variable and correlates with serum zinc levels.
• Cutaneous lesions are key indicators for suspecting zinc deficiency.
• Therapeutic response to zinc supplementation is rapid, leading to healing of skin lesions, though pigmentary changes may linger.

Conclusions:

• Early recognition of cutaneous manifestations is crucial for diagnosing zinc deficiency.
• While serum zinc levels can be indicative, the therapeutic response to zinc supplementation serves as the gold standard for diagnosis.
• Management involves zinc supplementation and addressing underlying predisposing factors to prevent recurrence.