Biotin deficiency
Biotin Deficiency
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. Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
Pronunciation
Biotin deficiency: /ˈbaɪoʊtɪn dɪˈfɪʃənsi/
Etymology
The term "biotin" comes from the ancient Greek word "bios" meaning "life" and the suffix "-in" denoting a protein. The term "deficiency" comes from the Latin "deficientia" meaning "a lack or shortage".
Symptoms
Symptoms of biotin deficiency include hair loss, dry skin, a scaly rash around the eyes, nose, mouth, and genital area, insomnia, and depression. Neurological symptoms in adults may include depression, lethargy, hallucination, and numbness and tingling of the extremities.
Causes
The causes of biotin deficiency include the consumption of raw egg whites over a prolonged period (egg whites contain a protein that blocks the absorption of biotin), malnutrition, and malabsorption conditions such as Crohn's disease.
Treatment
Treatment for biotin deficiency typically involves the administration of biotin supplements to quickly restore the body's biotin levels to normal. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Biotin deficiency
- Wikipedia's article - Biotin deficiency
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