Biotin deficiency

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Biotin deficiency
File:Biotin structure.svg
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Dermatitis, conjunctivitis, hair loss, neurological symptoms
Complications	Metabolic disorders, immune dysfunction
Onset	Can occur at any age
Duration	Chronic if untreated
Types	N/A
Causes	Dietary deficiency, genetic disorders, medications
Risks	Pregnancy, alcoholism, malabsorption syndromes
Diagnosis	Blood test, urine test
Differential diagnosis	Zinc deficiency, seborrheic dermatitis, alopecia
Prevention	Adequate dietary intake of biotin
Treatment	Biotin supplementation
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Good with treatment
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Biotin deficiency is a rare nutritional disorder which can become serious, even fatal, if allowed to progress untreated. It can occur in people of any age, ethnicity, or gender. It is most common in pregnant women and people who are malnourished or have rapid weight loss.

Causes

Biotin deficiency can be caused by inadequate dietary intake or inheritance of one or more inborn genetic disorders that affect biotin metabolism. Subclinical deficiency can cause mild symptoms, such as hair thinning or skin rash typically on the face.

Symptoms

Neurological symptoms in adults have been described as related to biotin deficiency, including fatigue, depression, and tingling of the extremities. The deficiency can also lead to anemia, conjunctivitis, and increased susceptibility to fungal infections and bacterial infections.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of biotin deficiency is usually confirmed with a urine or blood test, as the amount of biotin in the body is difficult to measure. A physician may also look for symptoms such as skin rash, hair loss, or neurological symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment typically involves supplementation of biotin, which can reverse the deficiency if given promptly. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.

See also

• Vitamin B7
• Nutritional deficiency
• Malnutrition