Dermatologic manifestations of vitamin and mineral deficiency

Vitamin and mineral deficiency can lead to a wide variety of clinical symptoms. The skin, as a frequent site of manifestation of these diseases, can be a decisive cue for diagnosis. Deficiency occurs when micronutrients are insufficiently supplied to the organism, intestinal absorption is disturbed, or there are genetic defects that favor a deficiency. Predisposing factors and common triggers for diseases associated with deficiency in our latitudes are alcoholism, autism, psychiatric illnesses, eating disorders, special forms of nutrition (e.g., veganism), medications, gastrointestinal illnesses, bariatric surgeries, and periods of increased need (e.g., growth, pregnancy, lactation, infections). This article presents general and specific mucocutaneous changes that should suggest vitamin or mineral deficiency. Since vitamin C and zinc deficiency are among the deficiency dermatoses that cause characteristic skin symptoms, the symptoms of scurvy and acrodermatitis enteropathica are examined in more detail.

Automated summary

Vitamin and mineral deficiency can cause various clinical symptoms, with the skin being an important indicator for diagnosis. Deficiency can occur due to inadequate nutrient supply, impaired intestinal absorption, or genetic defects. Factors such as alcoholism, autism, psychiatric illnesses, and eating disorders are associated with deficiency in our region. This article focuses on the specific skin symptoms of scurvy and acrodermatitis enteropathica, which are caused by deficiencies in vitamin C and zinc.