Zinc and Copper levels in the serum of Pityriasis Alba patients

Abstract: Pityriasis alba is an eruptive skin disorder which occurs as dry hypopigmented, scaly patches appears mainly in sun-expose areas of skin, usually in children and young adolescents. Complete cure occurs within few years even without treatment. Few trace elements play essential roles as cofactors in pigmentary process of the skin. In this study by determination of zinc and copper levels in the serum of pityriasis alba patients, we try to find a relationship between serum changes of these elements and the prevalence of pityriasis alba. Both dietary copper and zinc are under influence of phytates and fibers which can be chelated and reduce their bioavailability. Upon study on 48 patients, results did not show any significant difference in relation to the control group. So changes in the level of serum zinc and copper supposedly can not be considered in the pathogenesis of pityriasis alba. Keywords: Pityriasis alba, Trace elements, Copper, Zin