Which common ingredient in denture adhesives can cause myeloneuropathy?

Which common ingredient in denture adhesives can cause myeloneuropathy?

• A. Calcium
• B. Copper
• C. Zinc
• D. Iron

Answer: (C)

Excess zinc intake from denture adhesives can cause copper deficiency, and that copper shortfall can lead to myeloneuropathy. Zinc in high amounts induces metallothionein in intestinal cells, which binds copper and reduces its absorption. Over time, systemic copper deficiency disrupts enzymes needed for maintaining myelin and neuronal function, leading to demyelination of the dorsal columns and corticospinal tracts, with symptoms such as numbness, paresthesias, gait instability, and weakness. This is why zinc, rather than the other minerals listed, is implicated in this particular neuropathic condition. Calcium, iron, and copper at typical intake levels do not produce this myeloneuropathy through denture adhesive use. Copper itself is essential, and while excess copper can cause other issues, it does not commonly produce this specific myeloneuropathy from denture adhesives.

Excess zinc intake from denture adhesives can cause copper deficiency, and that copper shortfall can lead to myeloneuropathy. Zinc in high amounts induces metallothionein in intestinal cells, which binds copper and reduces its absorption. Over time, systemic copper deficiency disrupts enzymes needed for maintaining myelin and neuronal function, leading to demyelination of the dorsal columns and corticospinal tracts, with symptoms such as numbness, paresthesias, gait instability, and weakness.

This is why zinc, rather than the other minerals listed, is implicated in this particular neuropathic condition. Calcium, iron, and copper at typical intake levels do not produce this myeloneuropathy through denture adhesive use. Copper itself is essential, and while excess copper can cause other issues, it does not commonly produce this specific myeloneuropathy from denture adhesives.