Trace Elements (Zn and Cu) and Oxidative Stress in Pediatric Patients with Persistent Allergic Rhinitis

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
• Oxidative Stress Research
• Trace Element Metabolism

Background:

• Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a common condition in children.
• The role of oxidative stress and trace elements in AR pathophysiology requires further investigation.
• Understanding these factors can lead to better diagnostic markers and therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the relationship between clinical complaints in pediatric allergic rhinitis patients and their serum trace element levels (Zinc and Copper).
• To assess oxidative stress markers and thiol-disulfide hemostasis in children with allergic rhinitis.
• To determine if these biochemical markers correlate with the condition.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive study involving 35 pediatric patients diagnosed with allergic rhinitis and 35 healthy controls.
• Serum Zinc (Zn) and Copper (Cu) levels were measured.
• Oxidative stress markers, including total thiol, native thiol, and disulfide values, were assessed spectrophotometrically.

Main Results:

• Serum Zn levels were significantly lower in the allergic rhinitis patient group compared to controls.
• Total thiol and native thiol values were higher in the control group.
• Allergic rhinitis patients exhibited significantly higher disulfide values, suggesting an altered thiol-disulfide balance.

Conclusions:

• Oxidative stress is implicated in the pathophysiology of allergic rhinitis in pediatric patients.
• The thiol-disulfide hemostasis system appears to be disturbed in allergic rhinitis.
• Thiol-disulfide balance may serve as a potential indicator for allergic rhinitis.