Assessment of Serum Electrolytes and Trace Elements in Leukaemia Patients in Sudan

Abstract

The aim of this study is to measure the levels of serum electrolytes, trace elements and total iron binding capacity (TIBC) in Sudanese patients with leukaemia and to investigate the levels of these elements in leukaemia subtypes, in age, sex and related differences. Total of 201 persons were included; 79 (control group) and 122 (leukaemia patients). Serum electrolytes Na+,K+, Ca2+, Mg2+ and PO43- levelsanalysed by spectrophotometer. Trace elements Zn2+, Cu2+, Mn2+, Co3+ and TIBC by atomic absorption spectroscopy. Results showed a significant increase in Mg2+ level in CML, AML and ALL than control group. Age groups 16-30 and 31-45 having significant interaction with this increased of Mg.Serum Ca+ and Zn2+ showed lower levels in CLL, CML and ALL. Age groups 31-45 and Over 45 showed significant interaction of the age limits with this decrease in Ca2+ concentration. Age groups; less than one year -15 , 31- 45, over 45 years having significant interaction with decreased of Zn. Cu2+, Mn2+ and Co3+ showed significant decrease in all subtypes of leukaemia. All age groups showed a significant interaction of the age factor on the decreased level of Co3+ and three age groups 16-30, 31-45 and Over 45 showed significant interaction of the age limit with this decrease in Cu2+ level, while Mn2+ level showed no significant difference between age groups. Serum TIBC level was lower in patients with ALL, CML and AML than control. Age groups less than one year -15, 16-30 and 31-45 showed significant interaction with decreased of TIBC, while older patients’ ≥46 showed non significant interaction with decreased level of TIBC. Female patients showed significant lower level of Ca2+ and higher level of Cu2+ compared to male patients. The difference in levels found between the groups may be associated with factors such as stage of disease, diet and drugs associated with treatment.