Copper Deficiency Myeloneuropathy in Autoimmune Disease

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Nutritional Science
• Immunology

Background:

• Copper deficiency is a rare but treatable cause of myeloneuropathy.
• Acquired copper deficiency often results from malabsorption (e.g., gastric surgery) or excessive zinc intake.
• Clinical symptoms can resemble vitamin B12 deficiency, affecting the dorsal spinal cord.

Observation:

• A 76-year-old female presented with myeloneuropathy.
• The patient had advanced systemic sclerosis (SSc).

Findings:

• The patient's myeloneuropathy was presumed to be a consequence of copper deficiency.
• Systemic sclerosis is identified as a potential underlying cause for copper deficiency in this case.

Implications:

• Recognizing copper deficiency myeloneuropathy is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.
• Systemic sclerosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of copper deficiency, especially when myeloneuropathy is present.
• This case broadens the understanding of systemic sclerosis complications and the etiology of copper deficiency.