Serum ceruloplasmin, copper, zinc and copper zinc ratio Levels in different types of malignancy

Abstract EN

This study aimed to know the levels of serum ceruloplasmin (Cp), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) and Cu / Zn ratio concentrations in different type of malignancy and to clarify the relationships of those parameters when used as a markers for detection the severity of malignancy. Study design : A prospective case-control study, conducted through a period of 8 months, from October 2000 to May 2001, during which 184 patients admitted to the Surgical Ward of Basrah General and Teaching Hospitals.

There were 100 patients with different types of malignancy including 43 patients with gastro intestinal tract cancer (GIT), 18 females having breast cancer, 18 patients with urinary system malignancy and the reminder 21 patients having other types of malignancy.

The other 84 patients suffered from surgical ailments other than malignancy serve as a control group. Venous blood sample was collected from each patient for measurement Cp, Cu, Zn, and Cu \ Zn ratio by using standard methods. Results : serum (Cp) level was significantly elevated (P‹0.05) in all types of malignang with respect to age (less than 45 years and between 45-65 years olds), sex, smoking and nutritional habit when compared with nonmalignant patients. Serum Cu concentrations not-significantly elevated (p>0.05) in all types of malignant patients in comparison with nonmalignant subjects.

There was significant increase in its levels in specific type of malignant and within specific limits including age mainly less than 45 years, smoking and nutritional habit, particularly among those consuming fruits and vegetables 3-5 \ week. Serum Zn levels showed significant decrease (p>0.05) in malignant patients according to age, sex, smoking and nutritional habits mainly in patients characterized by less frequent intake of fruits and vegetables less than 3 times per week. Serum Cu \ Zn ratio was highly significantly elevated (p>0.05) in all types of malignancy with respect to age, sex, smoking and nutritional habit particularly those consuming fruits and vegetables frequency >3 times and 3-5 times per week. Conclusion : on the basis of this study, it can be concluded that, substantial differences in those parameters studied in malignant and-nonmalignant patients and in different types of malignancy were important and useful for the measurement of the severity of malignancy.