A Hematologic Twist: Zinc-Induced Copper Deficiency Mimicking Myelodysplastic Syndrome

Abstract

Zinc-induced copper deficiency is an underdiagnosed condition that can lead to systemic manifestations of hypocupremia, including anemia, neutropenia, ataxic myelopathy, spastic paresis, alopecia, and skin depigmentation. This case illustrates the harmful effects of zinc supplementation and zinc-containing denture adhesive in a 68-year-old man, ultimately leading to copper deficiency. It also underscores the importance of considering zinc toxicity in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with unexplained cytopenias, bone marrow abnormalities, and related symptoms. Furthermore, this report highlights the need for clinicians to consider zinc toxicity-induced copper deficiency in the evaluation of unexplained pancytopenias, especially in the post-COVID era, where zinc supplementation has become increasingly prevalent.