[Zinc: pathophysiological effects, deficiency status and effects of supplementation in elderly persons--an overview of the research].

Zinc is an essential micronutrient. Several studies have shown that zinc deficiency is common in older people. Zinc has been extensively studied with regard to its role in wound healing, infections, immune system, cardiovascular disease, and several other medical conditions. Several investigators have published intervention studies using zinc supplements in older people with favorable outcomes. This paper will briefly review the pathophysiologic effects of zinc, nutritional deficiency, and effects of zinc supplementation in older people.