Dear All,
 
We have had a recent case of severe copper deficiency(0.9 umol/L) presenting in a 51 year old man with neurological and haematological abnormalities which were associated with a high serum zinc level.  The cause was due to excess use of polygrip false teeth fixant, containing zinc!  The problem has been described before. The neurologist wants to start the patient on oral copper replacement but none are listed in the BNF. At present the patient has a preparation from a health food shop and now has a non-zinc fixant. Is there a suitable oral supplement around in the UK? I have seen copper gluconate and copper chloride mentioned in papers from the US.
Many thanks
 
Seasons Greetings
 
Roy
 
 
Roy Fisher
Consultant Biochemist
Royal Cornwall Hospital
Tel 01872 252546
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