A study of micronutrient levels in premature canities in children

Abstract

Background: Premature canities refer to the loss of hair pigment, at an earlier age than normal. Vitamins and minerals are involved in the various steps of melanogenesis. There is a paucity in the current literature on possible correlation between the serum levels of micronutrients and premature graying of hair. Materials and Methods: A case − control study was conducted on 56 patients of premature canities and 50 age- and sex-matched healthy controls between 12 and 18 years of age. After taking detailed history and physical examination, serum was analyzed for copper, zinc, iron, magnesium, Vitamin B12, folic acid, and Vitamin D levels in both cases and controls, and the results were compared. Results: Mean serum levels of zinc, magnesium, and Vitamin B12 were significantly lower in cases (P < 0.01). No significant difference between mean serum copper, iron, Vitamin D, and folic acid levels between cases and controls was found. Patients having deficiency of copper, zinc, iron, magnesium, and Vitamin B12 were significantly higher in cases compared to controls (P < 0.05). No significant association between the serum levels of micronutrients with severity of canities was found. Conclusion: On basis of our study, we conclude that patients of premature graying can have micronutrient deficiencies such as copper, zinc, iron, magnesium, and Vitamin B12. These micronutrients should be analyzed in patients of premature canities if facilities are available and if patients are found deficient, they should be supplemented for the same. However, further studies on a larger population and effect of supplementation of these micronutrients on premature graying are required.