Impaired immune function in a premature infant with zinc deficiency after total parenteral nutrition
Fan, P.C.; Teng, R.J.; Chou, C.C.; Wu, T.J.; Tsou Yau, K.I.; Hsieh, K.H.
Zhonghua Minguo Xiao Er Ke Yi Xue Hui Za Zhi Zhonghua Minguo Xiao Er Ke Yi Xue Hui 37(5): 364-369
1996
ISSN/ISBN: 0001-6578 PMID: 8942032 Document Number: 1320
The report describes a premature infant with necrotizing enterocolitis who developed symptoms of zinc (Zn) deficiency after three to four weeks of total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Clinical presentations included characteristic skin rash, alopecia, retarded growth, generalized edema and decreased serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Immune function studies revealed impaired neutrophil adhesion and mitogen-induced lymphoproliferation, whereas phagocytosis, chemotaxis and lymphocyte subsets remained normal. A high dose of elemental Zn (2.5 mg/kg/day), administered orally, improved the clinical symptoms and restored the immune function. In patients with Zn deficiency, impaired neutrophil adhesion and lymphocyte function may contribute to immunodeficiency which can be reversed with adequate Zn supplementation.
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