Acrodermatitis enteropathica-like eruption and food allergy.

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.

Duke Scholars

Author John William Sleasman Pediatrics, Allergy and Immunology