Concentration of serum trace elements in leukemia and lymphoma: A case-control study

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Oncology
• Clinical Chemistry

Background:

• Trace elements (TEs) are vital for metabolism and possess electrochemical/catalytic properties.
• Altered TEs concentrations are implicated in various cancers, including solid tumors and hematological malignancies.
• Understanding TEs' role may offer insights into disease pathogenesis and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between serum trace element concentrations and the incidence of leukemia and lymphoma.
• To compare TEs levels in patients diagnosed with leukemia/lymphoma against healthy controls.
• To explore the potential prognostic value of TEs in hematological malignancies.

Main Methods:

• Serum samples from 20 leukemia/lymphoma patients and 20 healthy controls were analyzed.
• Concentrations of Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu), Cadmium (Cd), Iron (Fe), and Selenium (Se) were measured.
• Atomic absorption spectroscopy was employed for precise elemental quantification.

Main Results:

• Serum Zn concentrations were significantly lower in patients with leukemia/lymphoma compared to controls (P < 0.05).
• Serum levels of Cu, Cd, and Fe were also lower in the patient group, though not statistically significant.
• Serum Se levels were higher in patients, but this difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusions:

• A low serum Zn concentration may be associated with the occurrence of leukemia and lymphoma.
• TE assessment in hematological malignancies could hold prognostic value.
• Further research may guide strategies for managing TEs alterations in cancer patients.