zinc deficiency

zinc deficiency,

a condition resulting from insufficient amounts of zinc in the diet. It is characterized by abnormal fatigue, decreased alertness, a decrease in taste and odor sensitivity, poor appetite, retarded growth, delayed sexual maturity, prolonged healing of wounds, and susceptibility to infection and injury. Other conditions that may precipitate the deficiency include alcoholic cirrhosis and other liver diseases, ulcers, and myocardial infarction. Prophylaxis and treatment consist of a diet of foods high in protein that are also rich in zinc, including meats, eggs, liver, seafood, legumes, nuts, peanut butter, milk, and whole-grain cereals.

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zinc deficiency (zinkˑ d·fiˑ ·shn·sē),

n insufficient levels of zinc in the body to support optimal functioning. Leads to weight loss, hypogonadism in males, short stature, delayed wound healing, growth retardation, and other effects.

Zinc deficiency causing hemorrhagic dermatitis.

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zinc deficiency

A condition caused by inadequate ingestion of zinc Clinical Dermatitis–cheeks, elbows and knees and tissue about the mouth and anus, diarrhea, delayed hypersensitivity response, fatigue, hair loss–balding of the scalp, eyebrows and lashes, loss of taste, difficult pregnancy, anemia, hyperpigmentation, hepatosplenomegaly, hypogonadism, poor wound healing; in children, stunted growth and sexual development, recurrent infections due to immune deficiency. Cf Acrodermatitis enteropathica, Zinc.