Zinc deficiency

Zinc deficiency is rarely severe and usually congenital. Milder zinc deficiency is usually acquired and is common in older people.

Manifestations of zinc deficiency may be subtle and can affect many organ systems. Delayed wound healing, impaired taste, loss of appetite, hair loss, fertility issues, and increased susceptibility to infection are common manifestations.

Plasma or serum zinc levels are useful in the evaluation of patients with suspected zinc deficiency. Milder forms of zinc deficiency may not be detected in plasma or serum tests, but supplementation may still be considered for patients with typical symptoms.

In most cases, standard oral zinc supplementation leads to increased zinc levels and amelioration of symptoms.

Zinc supplementation is generally safe, although acute toxicity with high doses may lead to adverse changes in immune, iron, copper, and cholesterol status, as well as to potential genitourinary problems.

Zinc deficiency is a lack of sufficient zinc to maintain optimal health, and may have genetic, nutritional, or metabolic etiologies. Zinc is a key micronutrient important in growth and development, immune function, taste, smell, wound healing, protein synthesis, and maintenance of skin and hair.