Concentrations of copper, zinc and various elements in serum of patients with bronchial asthma

Summary s study, serum copper, zinc, magnesium, iron and calcium concentrations were investigated in 40 patients with bronchial asthma (BA) and in 43 healthy subjects. Copper and calcium levels were found to be increased in patients with BA compared to the control group (p<0.001 and p<0.001 respectively). On the other hand, the serum zinc level was significantly lower in healthy subjects (p<0.01). No changes were found in serum magnesium and iron levels in patients with BA compared to controls. In addition to various elements, certain serum proteins such as albumin, transferrin and ferritin were also assessed to determine whether there was a relationship between the elements and proteins in patients with BA. There was only a significant decrease in albumin concentration in patients with BA (p<0.05).