chromium deficiency

Etiology

• prolonged parenteral nutrition

Pathology

• chromium is an essential trace element in humans
  • the basis for this need is not fully understood
  • no chromium-containing biomolecules with beneficial effects have been characterized

Clinical manifestations

• severely impaired glucose tolerance
• weight loss
• confusion
• peripheral neuropathy ?

Management

• chromium is added to normal TPN solutions

Notes

• chromium supplements (chromium picolinate)
  • no benefit in healthy individuals
  • might be an improvement in glucose metabolism in diabetics (weak evidence)

More general terms

• mineral deficiency

Additional terms

• chromium [Cr]