Changes in Serum Zinc Levels in Relation to Blood Pressure During Anaesthesia

Abstract

Fifty age and sex matched patients admitted for surgical operation, were divided into
normotensive (control) and hypertensive (study) groups. Systolic and diastolic blood
pressures were recorded preoperatively, 10 min after intubation, at max-increase of
BP and 24 hours postoperatively. 5 ml. venous blood samples were drawn at these
time periods, and serum zinc was also estimated. Control Gp (normotensive) subject
recorded fall (p < 0.001) in serum Zn 10 min after intubation (n = 18) and max. Rise
of BP (n = 7), Twelve subjects in study Gp recorded a rise in serum Zn at max. Increase
of BP (p < 0.01). The pattern in normotensives points towards mobilization of zinc,
while in hypertensives, homeostatic, defence mechanisms appear to resist mobilization
of serum Zn till maximum rise in BP occurs, indicating hormonal and other influences
on serum Zn levels during anaesthesia.

Key Words: Serum Zinc, Systolic BP, Diastolic BP, Anaesthesia