“Acrodermatitis enteropaihica” is seen in deficiency of
**Core Concept**
Acrodermatitis enteropathica is a rare genetic disorder characterized by an impaired intestinal absorption of zinc, leading to severe zinc deficiency. This condition is caused by mutations in the SLC39A4 gene, which encodes a zinc transporter responsible for zinc uptake in the intestine.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Zinc plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including protein synthesis, wound healing, and immune function. In acrodermatitis enteropathica, the impaired zinc absorption results in a decrease in zinc levels, leading to symptoms such as skin lesions, hair loss, and impaired wound healing. The SLC39A4 gene is responsible for encoding a zinc transporter that facilitates the uptake of zinc in the intestine, and mutations in this gene lead to the impaired zinc absorption characteristic of this condition.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because acrodermatitis enteropathica is not associated with a deficiency of vitamin B12, which is involved in the metabolism of fatty acids and amino acids.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because acrodermatitis enteropathica is not associated with a deficiency of vitamin D, which is involved in calcium and phosphate homeostasis.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because acrodermatitis enteropathica is not associated with a deficiency of iron, which is involved in the transport of oxygen in the blood.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Acrodermatitis enteropathica is a rare genetic disorder that highlights the importance of zinc in maintaining skin and mucous membrane integrity. A deficiency in zinc can lead to a range of symptoms, including skin lesions, hair loss, and impaired wound healing.
**Correct Answer: D. Zinc deficiency.**