Which of the following is NOT a symptom associated with zinc deficiency?

Zinc deficiency is known to be associated with various clinical manifestations, including alopecia (hair loss), hypogonadism (reduced hormone production), and growth retardation (delayed physical development and growth). These symptoms appear as zinc plays a crucial role in various bodily functions such as immune response, protein synthesis, and cell growth.

Alopecia can occur because zinc is vital for hair follicle function and growth. Hypogonadism results from the effects of zinc on hormone regulation, particularly testosterone in males, which is necessary for proper sexual development and reproductive health. Growth retardation is associated with insufficient zinc levels, affecting overall growth and development, especially in children.

Edema, however, is not a common or characteristic symptom of zinc deficiency. While zinc is involved in maintaining proper cellular function and regulation of fluid balance in the body, the presence of edema points more towards issues related to fluid overload, kidney dysfunction, or other nutritional deficiencies, rather than a direct result of zinc deficiency. Thus, edema stands out as the option that is not typically associated with zinc deficiency symptoms.