Work

Zinc Deficiency-induced Hypogeusia in a Patient with Refractory Iron-deficiency Anemia: A Case Report

Year: 2019

Type: article

Abstract: Zinc deficiency is a relatively common condition in various American populations but is frequently unrecognized and under-diagnosed. It typically presents with nonspecific symptoms, including lethargy, immune dysfunction, dermatitis, diarrhea, and decreased taste sensation (hypogeusia). Zinc deficiency often occurs concurrently with iron deficiency and has been linked to more severe clinical manifestations of iron deficiency anemia. We describe a 66-year-old man who presented with weakness and fatigue and was found to have persistent iron-deficiency anemia attributable at least in part to malnutrition caused by zinc deficiency-induced hypogeusia. The hypogeusia rapidly improved and nutritional intake normalized with zinc supplementation.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.6365

Authors: Alex J Gooding, Clifford D Packer, Amanda L Pensiero

Institutions: Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University

Language: English

Topic: Trace Elements in Health

Subfield: Nutrition and Dietetics

Field: Nursing

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W2996007474