Minerals and Trace Elements in Cystic Fibrosis

Abstract

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a single gene disorder which affects multiple organs. Due to intestinal malabsorption, several micronutrients, such as minerals and trace elements (TE), are not adequately absorbed by CF patients. Most studies agree that CF patients have low blood selenium and iron. Copper was found elevated in nails of CF patients and zinc decreased while magnesium elevated in hair of affected. However, studies on the levels of these TE in blood of CF patients have reported controversial results. This is probably due to the fact that only few studies analysed large groups of affected and that there might be variation in TE levels depending on the age and ethnicity. Thus, a new, large scale study should be conducted in order to determine the levels of different TE in CF patients. This will allow supplementing the affected with the correct combination of minerals and thus increase their well-being.