Abstract
Sir, The role of zinc in acute diarrheal disease in children has been conclusively proven beyond any doubts by numerous trials. [1] In fact, the Indian Academy of Pediatrics, World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations Children’s Fund have already approved and recommend its usage as an adjunct to oral rehydration therapy (ORT) in treatment of acute diarrhea in children. [2] Though zinc is known to influence intestinal ion transport, the exact mechanism has not been fully established. In-vitro studies have shown zinc to inhibit cAMP-induced, chloride-dependent fluid secretion by inhibiting basolateral potassium (K) channels, which can explain its role in secretory diarrhea. [2] Zinc has also been found to stimulate an immune response, inhibit toxin-induced cholera in-vitro, improve the absorption of water and electrolytes, improve regeneration of the intestinal epithelium and increase the levels of brush border enzymes. It is also a cofactor for numerous metalloenzymes required for normal cellular functions. [2] The aforesaid functions of zinc compel us to believe that multiple mechanisms may be involved in reducing stool output in pediatric diarrhea.
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