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The serum zinc, copper, iron, and chromium concentrations in epileptic children
Rafal W Wojciak1, Ewa Mojs, Maia Stanislawska-Kubiak
1Department of Human Nutrition and Hygiene, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Poland. rafwoj@up.poznan.pl
Insights
Epileptic children show altered trace element levels, with lower zinc (Zn) and chromium (Cr), and higher copper (Cu). Iron (Fe) levels also decreased in girls, indicating a need for monitoring these essential nutrients in epilepsy management.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Clinical Biochemistry
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder in children.
- Trace elements play crucial roles in various physiological processes, including neurological function.
- Previous research suggests potential links between epilepsy and altered mineral metabolism.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate serum concentrations of key trace elements (zinc, copper, iron, chromium) in children with newly diagnosed epilepsy.
- To compare these levels with those in a healthy control group.
- To explore potential gender-specific differences in trace element status.
Main Methods:
- Serum samples were collected from 23 children with newly diagnosed epilepsy before treatment.
- A control group of 25 healthy children was included for comparison.
- Serum concentrations of zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), and chromium (Cr) were measured.
- Statistical analysis was performed to compare groups and assess gender differences.
Main Results:
- Epilepsy was associated with significantly decreased serum zinc and chromium levels in all patients.
- Serum copper levels were significantly elevated in epileptic children.
- Serum iron levels were found to be decreased specifically in girls with epilepsy.
- The distribution frequency of these trace elements differed significantly between epileptic and healthy children.
Conclusions:
- Epilepsy is linked to significant alterations in serum trace element profiles in children.
- Specific trace elements like zinc, chromium, copper, and iron (in girls) appear to be affected by epilepsy.
- Monitoring trace element status in epileptic children is recommended for comprehensive care and potential therapeutic interventions.
Abstract:
To assess whether epileptic children have abnormal values of some trace elements, the aim of this preliminary study was to assess the serum zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), and chromium (Cr) concentrations in 23 children with initial recognition of epilepsy before beginning of pharmacological therapy in comparison with a healthy control group of 25 children, according to the gender. The study demonstrated that epilepsy decreases levels of Zn and Cr concentrations in all patients, and Fe level in girls, and increases level of Cu in all patients. The frequency distribution of these metals was significantly different in epileptic patients than in healthy subjects. There is a conclusion that status of trace elements in epileptic children needs to be monitored.
