Zinc: an undervalued microelement in research and treatment

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Dermatology
• Trace Element Metabolism

Background:

• Growing interest in healthy lifestyles emphasizes nutrition and microelement importance.
• Zinc is the second most abundant trace element, crucial for antioxidant and immunomodulatory functions.
• Zinc deficiency is linked to various dermatoses and systemic symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of zinc in health and disease.
• To highlight the clinical significance of zinc deficiency.
• To discuss the value of zinc supplementation.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent research on zinc's systemic and topical effects.
• Analysis of zinc's role in the pathogenesis of diseases, particularly dermatoses.
• Consideration of factors for assessing zinc levels: risk factors, clinical symptoms, diet, and lab results.

Main Results:

• Zinc deficiency can manifest as diverse skin lesions (erythematous, pustular, erosive, bullous), alopecia, nail dystrophy, and systemic symptoms.
• Zinc possesses antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties, impacting disease pathogenesis.
• Research indicates systemic and topical zinc supplementation is beneficial for numerous conditions.

Conclusions:

• Zinc is a critical microelement with significant implications for skin health and overall well-being.
• Assessment of zinc status requires a comprehensive approach, considering multiple factors.
• Zinc supplementation is a valuable therapeutic strategy for various health conditions.