TRACE METALS IN CANCER PATIENTS AND THEIR CORRELATION WITH RENAL FUNCTION

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Two trace elements, copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) in serum are elevated in cancer patients since both are
constituents of super oxide dismutase (SOD) as metalloenzyme, the enzyme that scavenge free radicals and
activated oxygen species in the body. The study of 52 cancer patients comprising of 31 carcinoma stomach
and 21 breast cancer showed the elevation of both of these trace elements in serum when compared to 32
healthy controls and effected the kidney functions as a consequences. Serum Cu and Zn were estimated by
Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS), analyzed statistically by student "t" test and marked elevation
was observed in cancer patient compared to healthy controls. Serum Cu and Zn values were 98.13 ± 17.49
μg/dl 99..57 ± 13.91 μg /dl respectively in 38 healthy subjects and these trace metals were 156.23 ± 31.02 μg/
dl and 171.86 ± 35.15 μg/dl in 52 cancer patients showing significant elevation (P <0.001). These elevated
elements were routed through kidneys and damaged nephrons since both of them are cationic heavy metals.
Nephrotoxicity of these trace metals was reflected as elevated level of blood urea and creatinine and were
found to be 27.44 ± 7.72 mg /dl and 0.83 ± 0.30 mg/dl in control groups and 64.49 ± 49 mg /dl and 1.60 ± 0.72
mg/dl in cancer patients respectively, a significant elevation (P<0.001) in study group. The elevation of
these parameters may indicate renal origin.

Key Words: Serum copper, serum zinc, super oxide dismutase, carcinoma stomach, carcinoma breast
and nephrotoxicity.