Assessment of trace elements, systemic inflammation, and electrolytes in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Abstract

Background Systemic inflammation, electrolytes, and trace element derangements are thought to be involved, directly or indirectly, in chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD). Aim Our aim is to evaluate systemic inflammation and disturbance in serum electrolytes and trace elements in patients with COPD. Methods This study was conducted in the Chest Department, Cardiothoracic Minia University Hospital. One hundred COPD patients and 40 healthy controls were included in the study. Sixty patients were in a stable state, while 40 patients were in acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD). Serum C-reactive protein (CRP), TNF-α, copper (Cu), zinc (Z), Na, K, and Mg levels were measured for all participants. Results CRP, TNF, Cu, and Z were significantly higher in the stable group than in the control group (p-value 0.0002*, 0.0018*, 0.04*, 0.034*, respectively) with significantly higher levels during exacerbation (8.47 ± 6.3, 24.36 ± 9.53, 201 ± 39.02, 192 ± 32.3). The Cu/Z ratio was significantly lower in the exacerbation group than in the stable group (p-value 0.042*). Serum levels of Na, K, and Mg were significantly lower in the patients group than in the control group (p-value 0.024*, 0.039*,0.044*, respectively), with more reduction observed in the exacerbation group (132 ± 5.45, 3.24 ± 0.52, 1.67 ± 0.38). Conclusion CRP, TNF-α, Cu, and Z levels were significantly higher in stable COPD patients, with higher levels during exacerbation. The Cu/Z ratio was lower in the exacerbation group than in the stable group. Na, K, and Mg levels were lower in patients than in the control group with more reduction during exacerbation.