Cystic fibrosis manifesting with acrodermatitis enteropathica-like eruption. Association with essential fatty acid and zinc deficiencies.

A refractory dermatitis resembling acrodermatitis enteropathica was the manifesting sign in a 5-month-old male infant with cystic fibrosis, preceding pulmonary and gastrointestinal tract symptoms by two months. The eruption was clearly nutritionally responsive. Biochemical evidence was shown for deficiencies of zinc, essential fatty acids, and protein. Altered prostaglandin metabolism was also demonstrated.