Zinc supplementation and its benefits in the management of chronic liver disease: An in-depth literature review
Ashley Bloom, Stephen Bloom, Hannah Silva, Amanda Nicoll, Rohit Sawhney
Abstract
Malnutrition among patients with chronic liver disease (CLD) is a common complication with significant prognostic implications for patients with liver cirrhosis. Micronutrient deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of hepatic decompensation and is an independent risk factor for mortality among cirrhotic patients. Micronutrient deficiencies in patients with CLD include zinc, vitamin A, vitamin D and selenium. This review article aims to evaluate the literature to date on the complications of zinc deficiency in patients with CLD. A management algorithm for zinc replacement has also been proposed.
Topics & Concepts
MedicineMicronutrientCirrhosisChronic liver diseaseMalnutritionZinc deficiency (plant disorder)ComplicationDecompensationGastroenterologyInternal medicineZincLiver diseaseMicronutrient deficiencyIntensive care medicinePathologyMaterials scienceMetallurgyLiver Disease and TransplantationTrace Elements in HealthLiver Disease Diagnosis and Treatment