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A geochemical basis for endomyocardial fibrosis
Cardiovascular Research
|September 1, 1986
Summary
Geochemical analysis of cardiac tissue samples revealed excess thorium, sodium, and calcium, alongside magnesium deficiency in patients with tropical endomyocardial fibrosis. These findings suggest a potential link between soil elements and the disease
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Cardiology
- Geochemistry
Background:
- Tropical endomyocardial fibrosis (EMF) is a severe cardiac condition prevalent in certain regions.
- Geochemical factors in soil are suspected contributors to EMF pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence of major elements in endomyocardial tissue samples from EMF patients.
- To identify potential geochemical correlations with EMF in Kerala, India.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of endomyocardial tissue samples using atomic absorption spectrophotometry and neutron activation analysis.
- Quantification of elements including iron, silicon, aluminum, zinc, magnesium, calcium, sodium, potassium, manganese, and thorium.
Main Results:
- Endomyocardial tissue from EMF patients showed significantly higher levels of thorium, sodium, and calcium compared to controls.
- A notable deficiency of magnesium was observed in the cardiac tissue of EMF patients.
- Thorium accumulation in cardiac tissue was confirmed, consistent with high dietary intake in the region.
Conclusions:
- Elevated thorium and calcium, coupled with magnesium deficiency, are implicated in the pathogenesis of tropical endomyocardial fibrosis.
- Geochemical factors, particularly thorium exposure from local soil and diet, may play a crucial role in EMF development.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms linking these geochemical imbalances to cardiac tissue damage.
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