Acrodermatitis enteropathica is a rare autosomal
recessive disease that results from a defect in zinc
metabolism. It is clinically characterized by a
phenotypic triad of periorificial and acral
dermatitis, diarrhea, and alopecia. Oral zinc
therapy gives a rapid excellent clinical response
and reduces mortality. We report three female
pediatric siblings who presented with periorificial
and acral dermatitis, diffuse alopecia, nail
dystrophy, irritable mood, and stunted growth. A
diagnosis of acrodermatitis enteropathicawas
confirmed with markedly decreased levels of
serum zinc. The patients were successfully treated
with oral zinc sulfate at a dose of 5mg/kg/day for
the first two weeks then maintained on a dose at
2mg/kg/day.
Zinc
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