Serum protein and zinc levels in patients with thoracic empyema

Abstract

The element Zn is the metal component or activator of many important enzymes. The tissue concentrations and activities of Zn metalloenzymes direct the rate of protein and nucleic acid syntheses, thereby influencing tissue growth and reperative processes. Most of the serum Zn is normally bound to circulating proteins. Low serum Zn concentrations might result from depletion of Zn-binding proteins. Serum protein and Zn concentrations have been reported to be depressed in patients with acute and chronic diseases. We compare the serum protein and Zn values of patients with thoracic empyema (n = 20) with those of a control group (n = 20). The values obtained in the empyema group were significantly lower than those in the control group before the study. Test group administered 220 mg zinc sulfate (ZnSO4.7H2O) over 20 d and there was a significant increase in the values for serum protein and Zn after the oral administration of the zinc sulfate.

Serum trace metal and ceruloplasmin variability in individuals treated for pulmonary tuberculosis

“…17 An assessment can be made by measuring the level of various biochemical parameters in body fluids, such as serum or plasma. 9 Cu and/or Zn levels in serum/plasma are quite often used to investigate the effectiveness of an ongoing anti-tubercular or thoracic emphysema therapy 18 . Furthermore, their levels in tissues 19,20 or in serum 19,21 are used in the diagnosis process of lung affections including TB, or in the assessment of risk factors for the development of carcinoma.…”

Trace element levels in pleural effusions

“…Zn is involved in wound healing and immunity, and functions as an antioxidant. Balkan et al 13 found that serum Zn and protein levels were low in patients with empyema, both increasing in those who received Zn replacement. The reasons for elevated Zn in infection‐related effusions are unknown.…”