Question

Hepatic encephalopathy is most likely to be improved by which of the following trace elements?

1: Selenium
2: Copper
3: Zinc
4: Chromium

Answer 1

Zinc is the trace element most likely to improve hepatic encephalopathy, as it functions as a co-enzyme facilitating the synthesis of enzymes critical for liver function. Option 3.

Step-by-step explanation:

Hepatic encephalopathy, a neuropsychiatric disorder associated with liver dysfunction, can be influenced by trace elements that play roles in liver enzyme systems. Among the options provided, zinc option 3 is most likely to improve hepatic encephalopathy as it functions as a co-enzyme facilitating the synthesis of enzymes that are critical for hepatic function. Zinc's importance is underscored in liver conditions, and its deficiency is known to exacerbate symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy.

While copper is essential for iron metabolism and is a component of various proteins like hephaestin and ceruloplasmin, its role is not directly associated with improvements in hepatic encephalopathy. On the other hand, selenium is associated with lipotropic factors critical for liver function but is not the primary trace element considered for managing hepatic encephalopathy. Moreover, there's less evidence suggesting chromium as a treatment for hepatic encephalopathy compared to zinc.