[Zinc and selenium metabolism in liver cirrhosis]

The liver plays an important role in the metabolism of trace minerals. Hypozincemia has been well documented in cirrhotic patients and multiple mechanisms, including poor intake and depressed absorption, appear to be responsible for it. Of particular interest is a role of zinc deficiency in hepatic encephalopathy and the therapeutic potential of zinc supplementation in patients with liver cirrhosis. Although some reports indicate beneficial effects of oral zinc supplementation in cirrhotic patients with hepatic encephalopathy, not all studies have been positive. Serum selenium concentration depends on the amount of selenium ingested and the decreased levels found in cirrhotic patients should be interpreted with caution.