Investigative Algorithms for Disorders Affecting Plasma Zinc Concentrations: A Narrative Review.

BACKGROUND

The trace element zinc is essential for multiple biological processes and analyzed in suspected cases of deficiency or toxicity. A systematic approach to abnormal results will aid the diagnosis of a patient with low or high zinc concentration in plasma in a more clinically efficient and cost-effective manner.

CONTENT: True zinc deficiency can be attributed to both acquired and inherited causes; however, falsely low concentrations may be obtained through sample timing, during inflammatory states, and in the presence of certain medications and hypoalbuminemia. High concentrations of zinc may be due to fasting, hemolysis, or environmental contamination of blood test tubes. The clinical status and condition of the patient should be considered to allow a targeted investigation to be carried out.

SUMMARY: Diagnostic flow charts have been created to help aid healthcare professionals to investigate the cause of both low and high zinc concentrations where the cause is not immediately apparent. This article provides a set of algorithms to suggest an investigative strategy in cases of unexpected abnormalities in plasma zinc.