Copper Deficiency Anemia

Deficiency of trace elements is rare but they are the important cause of anemia. For proper management, these need to be identified early. There has to be a strong index of suspicion for evaluating their deficiency. Copper is a trace element which is involved in the normal functioning of many cellular enzymes. Copper deficiency is seen in patients following the gastrointestinal tract surgery, prolonged malabsorption, total parenteral nutrition, etc. In this chapter, a clinical case scenario is presented followed by a step-by-step evidence-based approach to utilize specialized and advanced tests to unravel final diagnosis of copper deficiency anemia. A comprehensive description of pathophysiology of disease, early clinical sign of copper deficiency, changes in erythroid and granulocytic precursors and close differential diagnoses are discussed in question – answer format. Salient points are summarized for quick revision. To gain expertise in this topic and enhance your diagnostic skills for effective planning of management, read this chapter on copper deficiency anemia.