ISSN: 2577-4360
Authors: Taner A, Husamettin V*, Emine NK, Fadime O and Recep G
Objective: Trace elements copper, zinc and selenium, are found in extremely low amounts in living organisms but have extremely important functions for the organism. These elements take part in enzymatic reactions in the organism, structure of the bones, body growth and in many other vital functions. The aim of this study was to determine serum levels of selenium, zinc and copper in healthy individuals aged 18-65 years and people older than 65 years living in Tokat province. Method: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study which was conducted as a master's thesis at Selçuk University Medical Biochemistry Laboratory. The sample size in our study was selected considering C28-A3 protocol of the National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards (NCCLS), randomly selected 159 healthy individuals aged 18-65 + years were included in the study. Reference interval for serum selenium levels were measured by atomic absorption spectrometer with Zeeman correction, serum zinc and copper reference intervals were measured by flame atomic absorption spectrometer. The analysis of the data was transferred to the computer environment through the Minitab14 statistical program and the related analyzes were performed for each variable. Results: Of the 159 healthy subjects included in the study, 58 were female and 101 were male. Estimated mean reference values for serum selenium levels (geometric mean, GM) at 95% confidence interval; 73.35 μg / L (70.35-76.35 μg / L); 137.78 μg / L for copper levels (131.13-144.43 μg / L); for zinc levels; 16,47μmol / L (15,88-17,06 μmol / L). Conclusion: This study esatablishes reference values for serum selenium, zinc and copper levels in healthy adults living in Tokat province. Our results showed a discrepancy with the results’ of other countries as reported in the literature. In addition our results suggests that reference values for trace elements are affected by regional differences.
Keywords: Trace Elements; Selenium; Zinc; Copper
