Hypocupremia associated cytopenia and myelopathy: a national retrospective review
Gabreyes AA, Abbasi HN, Forbes KP, McQuaker G, Duncan A, Morrison I
Published in Eur J Haematol, Vol. 90 (1), pp. 1-9
Methodology
National retrospective review of all copper deficiency cases identified by Scotland's reference laboratory over 5 years.
Key Findings
Of 16 patients, 94% had blood features at presentation and 75% had neurological symptoms or signs. Twelve had high blood zinc and nine used zinc-containing dental fixatives. 93% of cytopenias responded to copper, but only 25% improved neurologically (33% deteriorated, 42% unchanged).
Conclusions
Copper deficiency is an under-recognized cause of cytopenias that are reversible but can progress to irreversible neurological injury without early treatment.
Limitations
Only 16 patients, retrospective, identified through laboratory data; the percentages reported for neurological involvement and outcome do not fully reconcile with each other.
Supplements Studied
93% of cytopenias responded to copper replacement
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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