[Zinc-deficiency syndrome with acrodermatitis]

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Dermatology
• Nutritional Science

Context:

• Ileocolitis Crohn's disease patients undergoing total parenteral nutrition (TPN).
• Development of acrodermatitis during TPN treatment.
• Low serum zinc levels observed in affected patients.

Purpose:

• To document zinc depletion syndrome symptoms in Crohn's disease patients.
• To investigate the relationship between TPN, zinc levels, and skin manifestations.
• To observe the effects of re-initiating oral nutrition on dermatitis and zinc levels.

Summary:

• Four adult patients with ileocolitis Crohn's disease developed acrodermatitis during TPN.
• Serum zinc levels were significantly decreased (0.21–0.68 µg/ml) during TPN.
• Dermatitis resolved within four weeks of resuming oral nutrition, with normalization of serum zinc.

Impact:

• Demonstrates acrodermatitis as a potential symptom of zinc depletion syndrome in Crohn's patients on TPN.
• Underscores the importance of monitoring zinc levels during TPN.
• Highlights the efficacy of oral refeeding for resolving TPN-induced zinc deficiency and associated dermatitis.