History:

Acrodermatitis enteropathica (AE) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by periorificial and acral dermatitis, alopecia, and diarrhea due to an inborn error of zinc metabolism.  It was first described by Danbolt and Closs in 1942.  AE is treated with zinc gluconate or sulfate administered orally at 1-3 mg/kg/d.  Clinical response is usually observed within 5-10 days.  Zinc-containing foods include oysters, crab, meat products, human milk, dried beans, and lentils.