Biotin deficiency
Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
W8MD medical weight loss NYC and sleep center NYC
| Biotin deficiency | |
|---|---|
| |
| 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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
Treatment typically involves supplementation of biotin, which can reverse the deficiency if given promptly. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.
See also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
