Zinc abuse and sideroblastic anemia.
We report the case of a young woman who presented with anemia and leukopenia. A bone marrow aspirate revealed a marked excess of ringed sideroblasts. A detailed dietary history disclosed excessive zinc intake. High serum zinc and low serum copper concentrations were confirmed. After discontinuation of the zinc supplements, she made a complete hematologic recovery. This report emphasises the importance of trace metals and their role in the development of hematologic abnormalities.
Ramadurai
J
J
Department of Medicine, Humana Hospital-Michael Reese, Chicago.
Shapiro
C
C
Kozloff
M
M
Telfer
M
M
D000328:Adult; D000756:Anemia, Sideroblastic / Q000097:blood / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000628:therapy; D001772:Blood Cell Count; D001803:Blood Transfusion; D001853:Bone Marrow / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007501:Iron / Q000097:blood / Q000378:metabolism; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000150:complications*; D015032:Zinc / Q000009:adverse effects*
D007501:Iron; D015032:Zinc