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Zinc profiles in rheumatoid arthritis
P Dore-Duffy1, M Peterson, F Catalanotto
1Dept. of Neurology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington.
Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology
|November 1, 1990
Summary
This study found lower zinc levels in rheumatoid arthritis patients, suggesting zinc deficiency may impact immune function and inflammation in rheumatic diseases. Further research is needed to understand the role of zinc in RA pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Immunology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Zinc plays a crucial role in immune function and inflammation.
- Altered zinc status is implicated in various inflammatory conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate zinc status in patients with rheumatic diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
- To compare serum and plasma zinc levels between patients and healthy controls.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study design.
- Measurement of serum and plasma zinc levels.
- Comparison of zinc levels across patient groups (RA, osteoarthritis, other rheumatic diseases) and healthy controls.
Main Results:
- Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) exhibited significantly decreased serum and plasma zinc levels compared to controls.
- Reduced zinc levels in RA patients may be attributed to lower albumin-bound and micromolecular protein-bound zinc.
Conclusions:
- Zinc deficiency is prevalent in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Altered zinc status, potentially due to changes in protein binding, may contribute to the pathophysiology of RA and inflammation.