Analysis of the serum zinc level in patients with atopic dermatitis, psoriasis vulgaris and in subjects with healthy skin

Background and Objective. The significance of zinc in the pathogenesis of d ifferent dermatological conditions is controversial. Using our own patient collective, the present study aimed to determine variations in serum zinc l evels in patients with atopic dermatitis and psoriasis as compared to level s in the normal population. Patients/Methods. The serum zinc levels of 97 patients with atopic dermatit is and 88 patients with psoriasis were compared to those in 22 healthy subj ects and subjected to statistical analysis. Results. In contrast to the data given in the literature, no statistically significant difference was found between the populations investigated. Conclusions. Zinc replacement therapy in patients with atopic dermatitis an d psoriasis appears to be indicated only in those with a documented zinc de ficiency.