Trace element reference values in serum determined by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry

Area of Science:

• Clinical Chemistry
• Trace Element Analysis
• Human Physiology

Background:

• Establishing accurate reference values for serum trace elements is crucial for clinical diagnostics.
• Previous studies may lack comprehensive data on specific populations or a wide range of elements.
• Understanding factors influencing trace element levels is essential for interpreting health status.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine serum reference values for ten trace elements (Ba, B, Cd, Cu, Fe, Mn, Li, Se, Sr, Zn) in a healthy Norwegian population.
• To investigate the influence of age, gender, smoking, and oral contraceptive use on these serum trace element levels.
• To establish reference and coverage intervals according to international standards.

Main Methods:

• Inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) was used for precise quantification of trace elements.
• Serum samples from 141 healthy Norwegians (69 men, 72 women, aged 21-87) were analyzed.
• Reference and coverage intervals were calculated following guidelines from IFCC and IUPAC.

Main Results:

• Median serum concentrations for Ba, B, Cd, Cu, Fe, Li, Mn, Se, Sr, and Zn were established.
• Serum Ba and Sr increased with age.
• Women over 50 showed higher serum Ba, Sr, and Se compared to younger women.
• Women exhibited higher serum Cu than men.
• Oral contraceptive use was associated with elevated serum Cu and Fe.
• Serum B levels increased with age but decreased with smoking.

Conclusions:

• This study provides essential reference intervals for key serum trace elements in a Norwegian population.
• Age, gender, and lifestyle factors (smoking, oral contraceptives) significantly modulate serum trace element concentrations.
• These findings contribute to a better understanding of trace element homeostasis and its clinical implications.