Definition of Diarrhea and dermatitis, zinc deficiency

Colorectal (Colon) Cancer Slideshow Digestive Disease Myths Slideshow Diverticulitis (Diverticulosis) Slideshow

Diarrhea and dermatitis, zinc deficiency: Among the consequences of zinc deficiency, dermatitis (skin inflammation) and diarrhea are particularly prominent features.

A genetic disease called acrodermatitis enteropathica in which there is impaired zinc uptake from the intestine is, in fact, characterized by the simultaneous presence of dermatitis (skin inflammation) and diarrhea. The skin on the cheeks, elbows and knees and the tissues about the mouth and anus are inflamed. There is balding of the scalp, eyebrows and eyelashes. Wound healing is delayed. And there are recurrent bacterial and fungal infections due to immune deficiency. The key laboratory finding in acrodermatitis enteropathica is an abnormally low blood zinc level reflecting the impaired zinc uptake. Treatment with zinc is curative.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• ciprofloxacin, Cipro, Cipro XR, Proquin XR - Clarifies the medication ciprofloxacin (Cipro, Cipro XR) a drug used to treat infections of the skin, lungs, airways, bones, and joints caused by susceptible bacteria. Article includes descriptions, uses, drug interactions, and side effects.
• Colonoscopy - Learn about the colonscopy procedure, what it is, why it is performed, preparation, complications, alternatives and the after effects of the screening exam on MedicineNet.com
• Abdominal Pain - Learn about abdominal pain (pain in the stomach / abdomen) including causes, symptoms, how abdominal pain is diagnosed, and how abdominal pain is treated.

Read more Diarrhea related articles »

Latest Medical News

• Can Symptoms Predict Ovarian Cancer?
• Rotavirus Vaccine Could Save Millions of Children Worldwide
• New Drug Slows Advanced Kidney Cancer
• Dual Treatment Cuts Dangerous Hospital Infection