Acrodermatitis Enteropathica
Also indexed as: Acrodermatitis Enteropathy, Zinc Malabsorption
(Inherited)
Acrodermatitis enteropathica is a rare inherited childhood disorder that results in the
inability to absorb adequate amounts of zinc from the diet. Anyone who is severely zinc deficient can develop the same symptoms that occur in the
inherited form of this disorder.
Symptoms of acrodermatitis enteropathica include skin lesions, hair loss, and diarrhea. If
untreated, the condition can result in death during infancy or early childhood.
Checklist for Acrodermatitis
Enteropathica
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Nutritional Supplements |
Herbs |
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Zinc
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What are the symptoms of acrodermatitis
enteropathica?
Symptoms of this condition include growth retardation,
diarrhea, hair loss, and a red skin rash. Skin around the fingernails may be red and
swollen.
Medical treatments
Individuals with acrodermatitis are usually given over the counter zinc supplements.
Dietary changes that may be helpful
Oysters, beef,
liver, pumpkin seeds, pecans, and Brazil
nuts are all high in zinc.1 However, people with acrodermatitis enteropathica
also need to take zinc supplements.
Nutritional supplements that may be helpful
Supplementation with zinc brings about complete remission in
hereditary acrodermatitis enteropathica. Zinc supplements in the amount of 30 to 150 mg per
day are used by people with this condition.2 People with acrodermatitis
enteropathica need to be monitored by a healthcare professional to ensure that their level of
zinc supplementation is adequate and that the zinc supplements are not inducing a copper
deficiency.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
Refer to the individual supplement for information about any side effects or interactions.
References
1. Murray MT. The Healing Power of Foods. Rocklin, CA: Prima
Publishing, 1993, 7.
2. Berkow R. Merck Manual. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck
Research Laboratories, 1987, 946.
Copyright © 2004 Healthnotes, Inc. All rights reserved.
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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational
purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro),
clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may
not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with
prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor,
practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or
before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires March 2005.
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Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary
studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
For an herb, supported by traditional use but
minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal
health benefit.
