Copper Deficiency: An Overlooked Cause of Anemia and Leucopenia

Authors

  • Avneek Singh Sandhu

  • James Kim

  • Sivjot Binepal

  • Alejandro Calvo

Keywords:

Abstract

Copper deficiency (hypocupremia) is an acknowledged but often overlooked cause of anemia and leukopenia (1-4). It is recognized as a frequent cause of hypochromic microcytic anemia, leukopenia, and neuropathy. Copper deficiency anemia has been reported after gastric resection (e.g., Roux-en-Y) (1, 5, 6), excessive zinc consumption (1, 6-9), and in patients with short bowel syndrome receiving total parenteral or enteral nutrition lacking adequate copper supplementation (1, 2). We report a case of vitamin B12, and iron refractory severe anemia and leucopenia with history of Roux-en-Y surgery. Myelodysplastic syndrome was suspected. Bone marrow biopsy was consistent with copper deficiency and serum copper levels were undetectable. The patient experienced complete hematological recovery after copper replacement therapy.

How to Cite

Avneek Singh Sandhu, James Kim, Sivjot Binepal, & Alejandro Calvo. (2020). Copper Deficiency: An Overlooked Cause of Anemia and Leucopenia. Global Journal of Medical Research, 20(F5), 1–4. Retrieved from https://medicalresearchjournal.org/index.php/GJMR/article/view/2052

Copper Deficiency: An Overlooked Cause of Anemia and Leucopenia

Published

2020-05-15