TRACE-ELEMENT DEFICIENCY IN MAN - CLASSIFICATIONS AND METHODS OF ASSESSMENT

Trace element deficiencies may be classified in many ways, for example from the viewpoints of developmental biology, geography, biochemistry and clinical medicine. While the major tool of trace element assessment will be analytical biochemistry this will be most effective when used in combination with other disciplines. Microbiology, medical mathematics and behavioural science are given as examples of other disciplines which contribute to our understanding of the pathophysiological, public health, and clinical significance of trace element deficiency.