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Trace elements in viral hepatitis.
Ahmet Kalkan1, Vedat Bulut, Senel Avci
1Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Department, Firat Medical Center, Firat University, 23118, Elazig-Turkey.
Summary
Serum analysis reveals viral hepatitis patients have significantly lower selenium and zinc levels, but higher copper levels compared to healthy individuals. These trace element changes may reflect the body's defense mechanisms against the virus.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Biochemistry
- Hepatology
- Trace Element Analysis
Background:
- Trace elements play crucial roles in various physiological processes.
- Imbalances in trace elements have been linked to several diseases, including viral hepatitis.
- Understanding these alterations can provide insights into disease pathogenesis and potential biomarkers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and compare serum levels of key trace elements (selenium, zinc, copper) in patients with different types of viral hepatitis against a control group.
- To determine if specific viral hepatitis types or clinical manifestations correlate with distinct trace element profiles.
Main Methods:
- Serum samples from viral hepatitis patients (n=102) and healthy controls (n=52) were analyzed.
- Trace elements including selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) were quantified using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry.
- Statistical analysis was performed to compare levels between patient and control groups.
Main Results:
- Serum copper (Cu) levels were significantly elevated in viral hepatitis patients (3.23 ± 1.02 mg/L) compared to controls (1.13 ± 0.21 mg/L) (p < 0.01).
- Serum selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) levels were significantly decreased in viral hepatitis patients (Se: 81.4 ± 26.01 µg/L; Zn: 0.230 ± 0.081 mg/L) compared to controls (Se: 166.15 ± 4.58 µg/L; Zn: 0.748 ± 0.392 mg/L) (p < 0.01).
- No significant differences in trace element levels were observed among different viral hepatitis types (A, B, C, D, E) or clinical presentations.
Conclusions:
- Viral hepatitis is associated with distinct alterations in serum trace element profiles, characterized by increased copper and decreased selenium and zinc.
- These changes are unlikely due to gastrointestinal absorption disorders, suggesting they may be part of the body's defense strategy or induced by hormone-like substances.
- The findings highlight the potential role of trace elements in viral hepatitis and warrant further investigation into their specific mechanisms and clinical implications.