Controlling zinc deficiency is key to treating this rare childhood disorder. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may help balance zinc levels and keep symptoms in check:
What you need to know
- Reach for the supplements
- Overcome the poor mineral absorption associated with acrodermatitis by taking zinc supplements as recommended by your healthcare provider
These recommendations are not comprehensive and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or pharmacist. Continue reading the full acrodermatitis article for more in-depth, fully-referenced information on medicines, vitamins, herbs, and dietary and lifestyle changes that may be helpful.
About acrodermatitis
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.
Product ratings for acrodermatitis enteropathica
| Science Rating | Nutritional Supplements | Herbs |
|---|---|---|
 | Zinc | |
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. 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. | ||
What are the symptoms?
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 options
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.
Vitamins 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.
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2006-09-07
