Weeping Wound, Disgruntled Gut And Fading Hunger: Acrodermatitis Enteropathica In An Infant
December 2025
in “
Cureus
”
TLDR Zinc supplements effectively treat inherited zinc deficiency in infants.
Acrodermatitis enteropathica (AE) is a severe zinc deficiency disorder, either genetic or acquired, with symptoms including periorificial dermatitis, alopecia, and diarrhea. This case report focuses on an infant with inherited AE, effectively treated with zinc supplementation. Diagnosis relies on clinical evaluation, serum zinc levels, and histopathology, as genetic testing might not be accessible. Early detection and zinc treatment are vital to avoid morbidity, and lifelong supplementation is required for congenital cases.