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Review
. 2024 Mar 29;25(7):3823.
doi: 10.3390/ijms25073823.

Zinc, Copper, and Iron in Selected Skin Diseases

Aleksandra Podgórska  1 , Aleksandra Kicman  1 , Sylwia Naliwajko  2 , Marta Wacewicz-Muczyńska  3 , Marek Niczyporuk  1
Affiliations
Review

Zinc, Copper, and Iron in Selected Skin Diseases

Aleksandra Podgórska et al. Int J Mol Sci. .

Abstract

Trace elements are essential for maintaining the body's homeostasis, and their special role has been demonstrated in skin physiology. Among the most important trace elements are zinc, copper, and iron. A deficiency or excess of trace elements can be associated with an increased risk of skin diseases, so increasing their supplementation or limiting intake can be helpful in dermatological treatment. In addition, determinations of their levels in various types of biological material can be useful as additional tests in dermatological treatment. This paper describes the role of these elements in skin physiology and summarizes data on zinc, copper, and iron in the course of selected, following skin diseases: psoriasis, pemphigus vulgaris, atopic dermatitis, acne vulgaris and seborrheic dermatitis. In addition, this work identifies the potential of trace elements as auxiliary tests in dermatology. According to preliminary studies, abnormal levels of zinc, copper, and iron are observed in many skin diseases and their determinations in serum or hair can be used as auxiliary and prognostic tests in the course of various dermatoses. However, since data for some conditions are conflicting, clearly defining the potential of trace elements as auxiliary tests or elements requiring restriction/supplement requires further research.

Keywords: copper; dermatosis; iron; skin diseases; trace elements; zinc.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
The most important trace elements in human physiology and their functions in skin.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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