Description:
Trace elements are nutrients present
in the body in very low concentrations. Some of these trace elements are
essential to normal body functions while others are non-essential and may be
toxic when present in increased amounts. When essential trace elements are
removed from the body, a biochemical abnormality occurs that can be corrected
by adding the deficient element back to the diet. Essential trace elements
include chromium, copper, fluorine, iodine, manganese, molybdenum, selenium,
and zinc. This article will focus on two diseases associated with the essential
trace element copper: Wilson’s Disease (WD) and Menkes’ Kinky Hair Syndrome
(MKHS).
Learning Objectives:
- Define Wilson's disease
- Discuss the pathophysiology of Wilson's disease
- Discuss the symptoms of Wilson's disease
Author(s):
Amapola Espiritu, Student
George H. Roberts, EdD, MT(AMT)
Launched: 2007