Acrodermatitis Enteropathica Following a Pull-Through Procedure

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Acrodermatitis Enteropathica is a rare condition traditionally expressed by perioral or acral dermatitis, diarrhea, and alopecia. Acrodermatitis Enteropathica can be inherited or acquired, with the acquired form linked to zinc deficiency. The pull-through procedure is a method used to treat Hirschsprung’s disease, a condition in which the large intestine is missing nerve cells that make it difficult to pass stool, which can lead to obstruction and absorption issues. Complications of pull-through procedures have been associated with bowel obstruction and malabsorption of essential nutrients, including zinc. Case Report: We present a 16-month-old male who developed perioral dermatitis, well-demarcated erythematous plaques, and alopecia after a pull-through procedure related to Hirschsprung’s disease. Discussion: Acrodermatitis Enteropathica can present with various cutaneous lesions, and dermatologists should be familiar with the differing morphologies. In this paper, we encourage dermatologists to consider Acrodermatitis Enteropathica as a differential diagnosis for patients who develop cutaneous lesions following pull-through procedures.   Keywords: Acrodermatitis Enteropathica, Hirschsprung’s Disease, zinc deficiency, case report