Massive copper and selenium losses cause life-threatening deficiencies during prolonged continuous renal replacement

Several trace elements are essential for immunity and wound healing, particularly after major burns. Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), which is used to treat renal failure, causes significant trace elements losses. The aim of the present review is to update the current literature and draw attention to this type of complication, as copper deficiency is rarely suspected and diagnosed in clinical conditions and may occur in chronic critically ill patients.

This is an emblematic case report and review of literature.

Major copper and selenium deficiencies were documented in a patient with major burns complicated by renal failure. The main cause was effluent loss during prolonged CRRT. The copper deficit resulted in life-threatening bradycardia and the alteration of lipid metabolism with severe hypertriglyceridemia. The published data are scarce, but trace element losses with effluent have been previously documented, as has the affect of copper deficiency on cardiac rhythm.

The literature regarding the specific requirements for chronically critically ill patients is limited. During prolonged CRRT, copper and selenium levels decrease and probably should be monitored during prolonged therapy. Research in this area is required.