Rediscovering the Physical Exam: Zinc Deficiency in a Preterm Infant

An 6-month-old female, born at 27 weeks gestational age presented with sharply demarcated, eczematous, pinkish-orange, hyperkeratotic papules and plaques in a U-shaped distribution, extending from her cheeks to her chin and notably sparing the lips. Sharply demarcated, symmetrical, beefy red, shallow erosions – “scald-like” in appearance – were noted peri-anally and acrally. Eyebrow hair was sparse, and fingernails were slightly ridged and soft. Mouth, tongue, and muscle tone were normal.

Source: The Journal of Pediatrics - August 19, 2021 Category: Pediatrics Authors: Carly A. Zaladonis, Laraib Z. Safeer, David C. Hanson, Laurel Erickson-Parsons, Andrew C. Krakowski Tags: Rediscovering the Physical Exam Source Type: research