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Trace Elements in Head and Neck Cancer Patients: Zinc Status and Immunologic Functions
Ananda S Prasad1, Joseph Kaplan2, Frances W J Beck1
11 Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine Detroit, Michigan.
Summary
More than half of head and neck cancer patients show zinc deficiency, impacting immune functions like interleukin-2 production and natural killer cell activity. This suggests a link between zinc status and immune response in these patients.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Squamous cell carcinoma of the upper aerodigestive tract is a significant health concern.
- Zinc plays a crucial role in immune system function.
- Interactions between zinc, copper, and iron can affect overall health and immune response.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess zinc status in adult patients with upper aerodigestive tract squamous cell carcinoma.
- To evaluate the impact of zinc deficiency on cell-mediated immune functions.
- To examine plasma copper and iron levels in cancer patients.
Main Methods:
- Recruited 30 cancer patients and 21 control subjects.
- Assessed cellular zinc criteria, plasma zinc, plasma copper, serum iron, and total iron-binding capacity.
- Measured interleukin-2 production, natural killer cell lytic activity, and interleukin-1β production.
Main Results:
- 53% of cancer patients were diagnosed with mild zinc deficiency based on cellular criteria.
- Zinc-deficient patients exhibited decreased interleukin-2 production and natural killer cell activity.
- Interleukin-1β production was elevated in both zinc-deficient and zinc-sufficient cancer patients.
- Iron utilization was decreased in cancer patients, while plasma copper levels remained unchanged.
Conclusions:
- Zinc deficiency and associated immune dysfunction are prevalent in over half of head and neck cancer patients.
- Cellular zinc levels, not plasma zinc, are indicative of deficiency in this population.
- Findings highlight the importance of assessing zinc status in head and neck cancer management.
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