A Case Series: Zinc Deficiency as a Potential Contributor to Oral Dysgeusia
Journal Title: Modern Approaches in Dentistry and Oral Health Care - Year 2018, Vol 2, Issue 5
Abstract
Oral dysgeusia is relatively common, and may be caused by a number of factors. Zinc is a trace element that is critical for many enzymatic activities inside the body. Zinc deficiency is one of the causes of oral dysgeusia. The purpose of this study was to report three cases of oral dysgeusia. Haematological investigation revealed reduction in serum zinc level in all patients. They were prescribed with zinc supplement. Symptoms improved after a month of oral zinc supplementation. Zinc supplement appears to restore oral disturbance due to zinc deficiency and idiopathic taste disorders. However, we still cannot rule the placebo effect. Nutritional problems are dependent on an individual’s ability to access (aging, finances and refrigeration), eat (oral health), absorb (gastrointestinal disorders) and store food nutrients (demand for nutrients vs. supply). Zinc is an important trace element that is necessary for many biochemical functions, including enzyme activities, maintenance of the structural integrity of proteins and regulation of gene expression [1]. In general, zinc deficiency can cause problems of integumentary, gastrointestinal, central nervous system, immune, skeletal, and reproductive systems [2]. Moreover, zinc deficiency has been associated with disturbance of special senses including vision, taste and smell [3]. Several studies have suggested that oral dysgeusia may be one of the important symptoms of zinc deficiency [4-9].
Authors and Affiliations
Guangzhao Guan, Li Mei
Keywords
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- EP ID EP614965
- DOI 10.32474/MADOHC.2018.02.000146
- Views 77
- Downloads 0
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