A geochemical basis for endomyocardial fibrosis

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.