Use of human teardrop fluid for the determination of trace elements in healthy individuals and diabetic patients

Abstract Background The use of unconventional biological materials in human trace element studies has increased terms published research studies. aim present study was to develop and validate the teardrop fluid for determining levels body. No been this area yet. This is a new non-invasive approach possible early diagnosis pathogenesis type 2 diabetes. Materials methods Human samples were obtained from Karbala (Iraq) (n = 111) healthy individuals with diabetes (n = 44); London (UK) (n = 18). V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, As, Sr Cd determined using an inductively coupled plasma mass equipped collision cell technology polyatomic ion correction (ICP-MS). Statistical analysis Discriminate function (DFA) carried out determine set variables that discriminated between elements diabetic patients. Results are similar many reported blood serum literature. interesting since they have different physiological functions, although overall mainly water containing electrolytes (∼ 90 %) solids (antibodies, hormones, etc). In general, groups Karbala, Iraq, significantly higher Mn found patients when compared (evaluated F-test two-tailed t-test). Cu As be (P  0.05). Cr both groups. Significantly those (UK). contrast, observed than Karbala. statistical difference two showed could used discriminate Iraq (83 % cases correctly classified). Conclusion health conditions evaluated. Trace elemental like which widely as invasive method assessing conditions. Sample collection application potential disorder (like diabetes) countries where cultural gender sensitivity issues respect other body samples.