Acrodermatitis enteropathica-like eruption and food allergy.

Journal Article (Journal Article)

BACKGROUND: Acrodermatitis enteropathica-like eruption (AE) is a distinct rash associated with profound zinc deficiency. It is seen in a variety of conditions but has not been reported as a presentation of food allergy. OBJECTIVE: To report AE as an unusual presentation of food allergy in infants. METHODS: Acrodermatitis enteropathica-like eruption was diagnosed by a characteristic rash and a low serum zinc level. The diagnosis of food allergy was made by history, serum total IgE and food specific IgE levels, or oral challenge with suspected foods. RESULTS: Two infants with AE, diarrhea, and low serum zinc levels were evaluated. Food allergy was found in both infants. The first infant had a serum IgE level of 4642 IU/mL. Specific IgE levels to milk, soybean, wheat, and peanut were 39.04, 10.14, 5.65, and 102.61 kU/L, respectively. Oral challenges to milk and peanut were positive and to soybean were negative. The second infant had a serum IgE level of 991 IU/mL; specific IgE levels to soybean and milk were 36.9 and 0.53 kU/L, respectively. Evaluation for other possible causes of diarrhea revealed homozygous delta F508 in the first infant, confirming the coexistence of cystic fibrosis; findings in the second infant were negative. CONCLUSIONS: Undiagnosed food allergy can lead to profound zinc deficiency. Food allergy should be suspected in a child with acquired AE.

Full Text

Duke Authors

Cited Authors

  • Martin, DP; Tangsinmankong, N; Sleasman, JW; Day-Good, NK; Wongchantara, DR

Published Date

  • March 2005

Published In

Volume / Issue

  • 94 / 3

Start / End Page

  • 398 - 401

PubMed ID

  • 15801253

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

  • 1081-1206

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1016/S1081-1206(10)60994-5

Language

  • eng

Conference Location

  • United States