Determination of Trace Elements in Hair Analysis Using ICP-Mass Spectrometry

Abstract

Determining the trace element levels in the human hair is a significant analytical technique, a screening element in the evaluation of possible deficiencies, excesses, and/or biochemical imbalances in all bodies of these microelements. In this work of research, by an inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) analyzer, the authors have proposed the discovery of toxic trace elements (Al, Pb, Hg) and levels principal mineral elements (Ca, Mg, Cu, Zn) from the human body on healthy individuals with a good nutritional status. The study was performed on a sample of 75 adult women (30-35 years old) from different regions of the country, by taking 100 mg of hair from the base of the scalp with a length of 3 cm, for analysis and evaluation of trace elements. Twelve patients (16%) had high mean values of intracellular Mg (1.2 mmol / L), high Ca values (0.72 mmol / L), but low mean Ca / Mg ratios, (0.58). In addition, six patients (8%) had low mean values of Mg (0.004 mmol / L) and Ca (0.04 mmol / L) but a high Ca / Mg ratio. At the moment of analysis, all individuals did not have acute or severe intoxication signs with heavy metals. The environmental lifestyle of analyzed individuals, from various areas of the country, was observed in their hair cells, by present levels of trace elements.