Study of trace elements (Serum Copper and Zinc) in patients of coronary artery diseases

Introduction: Previous studies suggest a protective role of the essential trace elements against cardiovascular disease, whereas wistful epidemiological data remains controversial. We aimed to investigate the alteration in concentration of zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) in patients presented with coronary artery disease. Materials and Methods: In this case control study 100 normal healthy controls and 100 patients diagnosed with acute coronary artery diseases were enrolled. Serum copper and serum zinc concentration were measured in both the groups. Results and Observations: Serum copper concentration was significantly higher in patient of acute coronary artery disease (141.0±15.2) compared to controls (97.0±10.8). Serum zinc concentration was significantly lower in patient of acute coronary artery disease (70.0±8.8) compared to controls (100.0±13.2). And the ratio of serum Cu: Zn almost double in patient of acute coronary artery disease patients compared to normal healthy individuals. Conclusion: From the present study, it is concluded that decreased serum zinc and increased serum copper levels are associated with coronary artery disease. Moreover, results demonstrate that increased serum Cu: Zn ratio can diagnose occurrence of vascular events even in CAD patients.