Published: 18 Jun 2025

ICD9: 269.3      ICD10: E60      ICD11: 5B5K.2

Zinc deficiency refers to a condition in which the body doesn't have enough zinc to function properly.
Zinc is an essential trace mineral, meaning the body needs it in small amounts for a variety of vital functions.

Here's a breakdown of what zinc deficiency is:

What Zinc Does in the Body:

Zinc is involved in numerous biological processes, including:

Immune function: It helps the immune system fight off bacteria and viruses.
Wound healing: Zinc is crucial for repairing tissues and promoting healing.
Protein and DNA synthesis: It's needed for the creation and maintenance of proteins and genetic material.
Cell growth and division: Zinc is essential for cell replication and development.
Taste and smell: Zinc plays a role in sensory perception.
Enzyme activity: It's a component of many enzymes that regulate chemical reactions in the body.
Growth and development: Important for normal growth during childhood and adolescence.

Causes of Zinc Deficiency:

Inadequate dietary intake: This is the most common cause, especially in populations with limited access to zinc-rich foods.
Malabsorption: Conditions like celiac disease, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis can interfere with zinc absorption in the intestines. Bariatric surgery can also cause malabsorption.
Increased zinc loss: Kidney disease, chronic diarrhea, and certain medications (like diuretics) can lead to increased zinc excretion.
Increased zinc requirements: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, infancy, and rapid growth periods increase the body's demand for zinc.
Dietary factors: High intake of phytates (found in grains, legumes, and seeds) can bind to zinc and inhibit its absorption. Iron supplementation can also interfere with zinc absorption.
Alcoholism: Alcohol can interfere with zinc absorption and increase its excretion.
Genetic conditions: Acrodermatitis enteropathica is a rare genetic disorder that impairs zinc absorption.

Symptoms of Zinc Deficiency:

Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the deficiency. Common signs and symptoms include:

Impaired immune function: Frequent infections, delayed wound healing.
Loss of appetite: Reduced or absent appetite.
Growth retardation: In children, slow or stunted growth.
Skin problems: Rashes (often around the mouth and anus), acne, dry skin.
Hair loss: Thinning hair or hair loss (alopecia).
Diarrhea: Chronic diarrhea can both be a cause and a symptom of zinc deficiency.
Taste and smell abnormalities: Reduced or distorted sense of taste and smell.
Eye problems: Impaired vision, night blindness.
Mental lethargy: Fatigue, depression, irritability.
Delayed sexual maturation: In adolescents, delayed development of secondary sexual characteristics.
Impotence: In men, erectile dysfunction.
Wound Healing: Slow or incomplete wound healing.

Diagnosis:

A doctor can diagnose zinc deficiency based on:

Medical history and physical exam: Assessment of symptoms and risk factors.
Blood tests: Measuring zinc levels in the blood. However, blood tests are not always accurate, as zinc levels can fluctuate.
Other tests: In some cases, urine zinc tests or hair analysis may be used, but these are less reliable.

Treatment:

The primary treatment for zinc deficiency is:

Zinc supplementation: Taking zinc supplements orally. The dosage will depend on the severity of the deficiency and the individual's needs. Zinc supplements are available in various forms, such as zinc sulfate, zinc gluconate, and zinc acetate.
Dietary changes: Increasing the intake of zinc-rich foods in the diet.

Zinc-Rich Foods:

Meat: Beef, lamb, pork
Seafood: Oysters (highest source), crab, lobster
Poultry: Chicken, turkey
Nuts and seeds: Pumpkin seeds, cashews, almonds
Legumes: Beans, lentils
Dairy products: Milk, cheese, yogurt
Whole grains: Fortified cereals, oats, brown rice

Important Considerations:

Consult a doctor: It's important to consult a doctor before taking zinc supplements, as excessive zinc intake can lead to toxicity and interfere with the absorption of other minerals like copper.
Drug interactions: Zinc supplements can interact with certain medications, such as antibiotics (tetracycline and quinolone antibiotics).
Long-term effects: Untreated zinc deficiency can have serious long-term consequences, especially in children.

In summary, zinc deficiency is a common condition that can have a wide range of effects on the body. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications and maintain overall health. If you suspect you may have a zinc deficiency, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and management.