Trace Elements and Minerals Lecture Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering the functions, deficiencies, and toxicities of essential trace elements and toxic minerals.

Trace Elements

Tiny minerals that help enzymes work; without them, proteins cannot function properly.

Iron ($Fe$)

Trace element whose main job is to make hemoglobin.

Iron Deficiency

A state characterized by $Iron \downarrow$, $Ferritin \downarrow$, and $TIBC/Transferrin \uparrow$.

Iron Overload

A state characterized by $Iron \uparrow$, $TIBC \downarrow$, and $Ferritin \uparrow$.

Zinc ($Zn$)

Trace element essential for the immune system, DNA synthesis, and wound healing.

Zinc Deficiency

Condition presenting with poor healing, hair loss, and immune dysfunction.

Copper ($Cu$)

Trace element involved in iron metabolism, the nervous system, and collagen production.

Copper Deficiency

Condition associated with Wilson disease, Menkes, and malnutrition.

Selenium ($Se$)

An antioxidant trace element that protects cells.

Selenium Deficiency

Condition that can cause cardiomyopathy and hypothyroidism.

Selenium Toxicity

Condition presenting with hair loss and garlic breath.

Magnesium ($Mg$)

Mineral important for heart rhythm and muscle function.

Magnesium Deficiency

Condition leading to $PTH \downarrow$, arrhythmias (Torsades), and hypocalcemia.

Magnesium Toxicity

Condition associated with renal failure and muscle weakness.

Chromium ($Cr$)

Trace element that helps insulin work; deficiency leads to poor glucose tolerance.

Lead ($Pb$)

A toxic element that causes anemia, kidney damage, and neuropathy.

Basophilic stippling

A specific board pearl finding associated with Lead ($Pb$) toxicity.

Mercury ($Hg$)

A toxic element that causes neurotoxicity, memory loss, and kidney damage.