biotin deficiency syndrome, an abnormal condition caused by a deficiency of biotin, a B complex vitamin. It is characterized by dermatitis, hyperesthesia, muscle pain, anorexia, slight anemia, and changes in electrocardiographic activity of the heart. The average daily requirement of biotin for an adult is 100 to 200 μg; the average American diet provides 100 to 300 μg of the vitamin. Because biotin is synthesized by intestinal bacteria, naturally occurring deficiency in adults is unknown, although it can be induced by large quantities of raw egg whites in the diet. Symptoms include scaly dermatitis, grayish pallor, extreme lassitude, anorexia, muscle pains, insomnia, some precordial distress, and slight anemia. Some authorities consider seborrheic dermatitis in infants a form of biotin deficiency.
