Abstract

Background: In the current study, we evaluated the zinc, copper, and iron serum levels in patients with nasal polyposis.

Material and methods: In this case-control study 50 patients with nasal polyposis diagnosed by paranasal sinuses endoscopy, involved as case group. Fifty participants in control group were selected among patients who referred for nasal septoplasty. Participants’ demographic and clinical information was collected through interviews and complete examinations and data was recorded using a questionnaire. Then, 10ml of venous blood of each participant was taken and each blood sample was examined concerning serum iron, zinc, and copper levels.

Results: The mean of serum zinc level was 80.94±22.39mg/dL in patients with nasal polyps and was 93.76±23.32mg/dL in healthy subject [p=0.006]. The mean of serum copper level was 87.2±31.88mg/dL in the case group and was 101.22±29.88mg/dL in the control group indicating significantly higher level of serum copper in healthy subjects [p=0.02]. With respect to serum iron level, no statistically significant difference was seen between two groups, although serum iron level was higher in the control group [97.38±28.88 vs. 107.24±31.41, p=0.11].

Conclusion: According to the current study, low serum levels of trace elements [Zn, Cu an iron] is seen in patients with nasal polyposis.

Keywords: Zinc; Copper; Iron; Nasal polyposis