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[Trace element concentrations in HIV infected patients]
1Arbeitsgruppe AIDS, I. Med. Abtlg. Akademisches Lehrkrankenhaus, München-Schwabing.
Insights
This study found significant differences in essential trace element levels, including calcium, copper, iron, phosphorus, and selenium, in men with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Magnesium levels correlated with T4 cell counts, indicating a potential link between nutrition and immune status in HIV.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
- Nutritional Science
Context:
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection is associated with altered metabolic processes.
- Trace elements play crucial roles in immune function and overall health.
- Understanding micronutrient status in HIV patients is vital for management.
Purpose:
- To investigate serum trace element concentrations and their correlation with immune status (T4 cell count) in HIV-infected men.
- To compare trace element levels between HIV-infected individuals and healthy controls.
Summary:
- Serum levels of calcium (Ca), copper (Cu), and iron (Fe) were significantly higher in HIV-infected men compared to controls.
- Phosphorus (P) and selenium (Se) levels were significantly lower in the HIV-infected group.
- Direct correlations were observed between Se and zinc (Zn), Ca with Cu and Fe, and Fe with P in HIV cases.
- In healthy controls, K and Mg levels were directly correlated, while Zn and P showed an inverse correlation.
- No correlation was found between World Health Organization (WHO) staging and trace element levels.
- A direct correlation existed between the absolute number of T4-lymphocytes and serum magnesium (Mg) concentration.
Impact:
- Highlights potential nutritional deficiencies or imbalances in HIV patients.
- Suggests that magnesium levels may serve as a biomarker for immune status in HIV.
- Provides insights into the complex interplay between trace elements, viral infection, and immune response.
Abstract:
The serum concentrations of Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, P, Se and Zn and the absolute number of T4 cells were determined in 59 HIV-infected men. Serum levels of Ca, Cu and Fe were significantly higher, those of P and Se significantly lower in the infected, compared to healthy controls. In the HIV-infected cases the concentrations of Se and Zn, of Ca with Cu and Fe, and of Fe with P, were directly correlated. In the controls, the correlation between the levels of K and Mg was direct, and inverse between those of Zn and P. WR-stage and trace element levels did not correlate. The absolute number of T4-lymphocytes was directly correlated with the serum Mg concentration.