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Symptomatic zinc deficiency in a breast-fed preterm infant
Archives of Disease in Childhood
|July 1, 1980
Summary
A preterm infant developed symptomatic zinc deficiency despite exclusive breastfeeding. Oral zinc supplements resolved symptoms, ruling out acrodermatitis enteropathica and highlighting other potential causes in preterm infants.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nutrition
- Nutritional Deficiencies
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Symptomatic zinc deficiency is rare in exclusively breastfed infants.
- Preterm infants may have unique nutritional needs and risks.
- Acrodermatitis enteropathica is a genetic disorder causing zinc malabsorption.
Observation:
- A 2-month-old preterm infant exclusively breastfed presented with symptomatic zinc deficiency.
- The infant showed complete remission of symptoms after receiving oral zinc supplements.
- Mucosal 65Zn uptake studies and metabolic balances were performed before and after supplementation.
Findings:
- The diagnostic tests excluded acrodermatitis enteropathica as the cause of zinc deficiency.
- The infant no longer required zinc supplements by 12 months of age and was well.
- The study identified other potential causes for symptomatic zinc deficiency in this preterm infant.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering non-genetic causes of zinc deficiency in preterm infants.
- Early identification and management of zinc deficiency are crucial for preterm infant health.
- Further research into the long-term management of zinc-deficient preterm infants is warranted.