Copper deficiency myeloneuropathy with a history of malabsorption: a tale of two cases

Abstract

Acquired copper deficiency is rare but often seen among patients with intestinal malabsorption syndromes. Often times, these patients can develop myeloneuropathies with copper deficiency as an elusive culprit. With early diagnosis and appropriate supplementation, many symptoms, such as myeloneuropathy, can be reversed entirely. Checking copper levels should be included in the workup of myeloneuropathies to prevent irreversible damage and improving morbidity and mortality.

Keywords

• copper deficiency
• myeloneuropathy
• malabsorption syndromes