الفهرس 
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Abstract
Zinc is one of the essential trace elements, and a member of major micronutrient subgroups in human nutrition and health. Zinc is necessary for the normal functioning of cells. More importantly, this element modulates DNA- and RNA-related enzymes and is also involved in many immunologic processes. It was proposed that zinc influences dendritic cell function, and it is also active in a variety of cellular functions, including signal transduction, transcription and replication
Adequate intake of zinc is required for the immune system to function efficiently, and its deficiency affects the functions of immune cells, especially T cells. Its deficiency may lead to decreased number of T cells and disruption of their function, including a shift of the T helper (Th¬1) cell response to a Th2 predominance and reduced killing activity in Natural Killer (NK) cells In addition, neutrophil count is reduced and their recruitment is diminished. Although monocytes and macrophages are more resistant to zinc deficiency, this condition can impair intercellular signaling pathways in them It is also an integral part of a nubmer of metalloenzymes necessary for normal protein, carbohydrate, lipid, and nucleic acid metabolism
Decreased serum zinc levels have been reported in a number of cutaneous disorders. Zinc cofactor of metalloenzymes has a considerable effect on nearly all the metabolism that takes place in organs of the body, including the skin and hair
Zinc deficiency characteristically causes the cutaneous disorder of acrodermatitis enteropathica. Some investigators have reported low serum zinc levels in other cutaneous disorders like acne vulgaris, psoriasis, lichen planus, leprosy, icthyosis, urticaria, chronic venous leg ulcers, etc…, while others have not found the same