Copper deficiency

Q: Copper is absorbed in?

A) Stomach and proximal duodenum
B) Small intestine
C) Transverse colon
D) Sigmoid colon 
E) Rectum


Answer:  A

Copper is absorbed in the stomach and proximal duodenum. Clinical significance of this question is to address the need of elemental supplements post bariatric surgeries like Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD/DS) surgeries. Deficiency of copper leads to microcytic anemia, neutropenia, and ataxia.

#surgicalcriticalcare



References: 

 1. Griffith DP, Liff DA, Ziegler TR, et al. Acquired copper deficiency: a potentially serious and preventable complication following gastric bypass surgery. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2009; 17:827. 

2. Gletsu-Miller N, Broderius M, Frediani JK, et al. Incidence and prevalence of copper deficiency following roux-en-y gastric bypass surgery. Int J Obes (Lond) 2012; 36:328.