Trace elements status in multinodular goiter.

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Nutritional Science
• Trace Element Research

Background:

• Thyroid metabolism relies on iodine and selenium, but roles of other trace elements like copper, zinc, manganese, and iron are less understood.
• Thyroid hormone homeostasis is crucial, and disruptions can lead to benign thyroid diseases such as multinodular goiter.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate trace element status (copper, zinc, manganese, iron) in patients with benign thyroid disease (multinodular goiter).
• To evaluate potential links between trace element concentrations and thyroid hormone levels (FT4, FT3, TSH).

Main Methods:

• Plasma concentrations of thyroid hormones, selenium, copper, zinc, manganese, and iron were measured in 25 patients with multinodular goiter and 20 healthy controls.
• Urinary iodine levels were assessed to determine iodine status.
• Statistical comparisons were made between patient and control groups.

Main Results:

• Patients with multinodular goiter exhibited mild iodine deficiency compared to controls.
• Plasma copper and manganese levels were significantly higher in patients with multinodular goiter.
• No significant differences in plasma selenium, zinc, or iron levels were observed between groups.
• A significant correlation was found between plasma copper concentration and the FT3/FT4 ratio.

Conclusions:

• Elevated plasma copper and manganese levels in multinodular goiter suggest a potential role in thyroid function and goiter development.
• Mild iodine deficiency may be associated with multinodular goiter.
• Copper and its ratio to FT3/FT4 warrant further investigation in thyroid health.