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Significance of serum trace element status in patients with rheumatic heart disease: a prospective study

Feridun Kosar1, Ibrahim Sahin, Nusret Acikgöz

  • 1Department of Cardiology, Inonu University, Faculty of Medicine, Turgut Ozal Medical Center, Malatya, Turkey. mferidunkosar@hotmail.com

Biological Trace Element Research
|September 20, 2005
PubMed

Insights

This study found that patients with rheumatic heart disease (RHD) have lower levels of selenium and zinc, and higher levels of copper. These trace element imbalances may play a role in RHD development and inflammation.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Clinical Chemistry
  • Nutritional Science

Background:

  • Trace elements are vital for cardiovascular health.
  • Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is a significant global health concern.
  • Alterations in serum trace element levels may be associated with RHD pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate serum concentrations of selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) in patients with chronic rheumatic heart disease (RHD).
  • To explore the relationship between these trace elements and the severity of RHD.
  • To determine if altered trace element levels correlate with the inflammatory process in RHD.

Main Methods:

  • Serum samples were collected from RHD patients and healthy controls.
  • Atomic absorption spectrophotometry was used to quantify serum Se, Zn, and Cu levels.
  • Statistical analysis was performed to compare trace element concentrations and ratios between groups.

Main Results:

  • RHD patients exhibited significantly lower serum Se and Zn concentrations compared to controls.
  • RHD patients showed significantly higher serum Cu concentrations and a higher Cu/Zn ratio.
  • No significant correlation was observed between trace element levels and RHD functional capacity classes.

Conclusions:

  • Deficiencies in Se and Zn may contribute to the development of RHD.
  • Elevated serum Cu and an increased Cu/Zn ratio in RHD patients may indicate ongoing inflammation.
  • Trace element monitoring could offer insights into RHD pathophysiology and progression.

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