Alcoholic Cirrhosis with Zinc and Copper Co-Deficiency

Abstract

A 54-year-old Thai female with known alcoholic cirrhosis presented with chronic scaly eczematous patches and plaque for over 1 month. Initially, she was treated with oral antibiotics, but the lesions did not improve. The dermatologic examination and history of alcoholic cirrhosis were compatible with zinc deficiency. Moreover, copper deficiency was found together with zinc deficiency. Excessive alcohol consumption can cause zinc and copper co-deficiency. To avoid aggravated copper deficiency after zinc supplementation, copper and zinc were supplemented together in appropriate proportions. On the 2-week follow-up examination, her clinical outcome improved.