Acquired acrodermatitis enteropathica caused by zinc deficiency in a heavy drinker: A case report

ABSTRACT

Acrodematitis enteropathica is an uncommon disease due to zinc deficiency which is characterized by perioral and acral dermatitis, alopecia, and diarrhea. This disease typically presents in infants, either due to an autosomal recessive genetic disorder or after cessation of breastfeeding. Acquired adult-onset acrodermatitis enteropathica has rarely been reported so far. We report a case of a 38-year-old man who had a history of chronic alcohol intake and presented with severe acrodermatitis enteropathica. The patient was successfully managed with zinc supplement and supportive care.