Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-05-08
Acrodermatitis enteropathica is primarily known by its official medical name, though it is occasionally referred to as zinc deficiency dermatosis or Danbolt-Closs syndrome. These synonyms reflect the condition's historical discovery and its fundamental metabolic cause, which involves a severe impairment in zinc absorption. What are the historical and alternative names for Acrodermatitis enteropathica? In medical literature, Acrodermatitis enteropathica is most frequently cited by its original name, but you may encounter older terms that describe its clinical presentation.
Acrodermatitis Enteropathica synonyms
Other names for Acrodermatitis Enteropathica: synonyms, acronyms and related terms used by doctors and patients.
Acrodermatitis enteropathica is primarily known by its official medical name, though it is occasionally referred to as zinc deficiency dermatosis or Danbolt-Closs syndrome. These synonyms reflect the condition's historical discovery and its fundamental metabolic cause, which involves a severe impairment in zinc absorption.
What are the historical and alternative names for Acrodermatitis enteropathica?
In medical literature, Acrodermatitis enteropathica is most frequently cited by its original name, but you may encounter older terms that describe its clinical presentation. Historical names include Danbolt-Closs syndrome, named after the two physicians who first described the condition in 1942. Because the disease is caused by a mutation in the SLC39A4 gene leading to zinc malabsorption, it is sometimes referred to as hereditary zinc deficiency or zinc-deficiency dermatosis. These names are used interchangeably in clinical settings, though Acrodermatitis enteropathica remains the standard nomenclature in global medical databases.
How is the condition classified in medical systems?
To ensure accurate medical coding and research tracking, Acrodermatitis enteropathica is indexed under specific identifiers across major international health organizations. Understanding these codes can help you navigate your medical records or search for clinical literature:
- OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man): #201100
- Orphanet: ORPHA1758
- ICD-10: E83.2 (Disorders of zinc metabolism)
Why does Acrodermatitis enteropathica have multiple names?
The variety of names for Acrodermatitis enteropathica stems from the evolution of medical knowledge regarding the disease. Early researchers described the symptoms—skin inflammation (acrodermatitis) and gastrointestinal distress (enteropathica)—before the underlying genetic mechanism was fully understood. As clinical genetics advanced, the term Acrodermatitis enteropathica was retained for its descriptive accuracy, while newer terms focused on the specific metabolic pathway of zinc transport. Today, Acrodermatitis enteropathica is the preferred term used by dermatologists, geneticists, and pediatricians worldwide to ensure consistency in diagnosis and treatment.
Next steps
- Consult with a board-certified dermatologist or metabolic geneticist to confirm your diagnosis.
- Review your genetic testing results to verify the SLC39A4 mutation.
- Join the DiseaseMaps.org community to connect with others who understand the challenges of living with this rare condition.
- Request that your medical records use the standardized term Acrodermatitis enteropathica for insurance and referral clarity.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
