Serum Zinc & Copper in Myocardial Infarction

SUMMARY The purpose of this study is to compare the level of zinc, copper and the ratio of zinc to copper in serum of patients who are suffering from acute myocardial infarction with healthy men. In 10 ml blood samples from 45 men on the second day of myocardial infarction and 51 healthy men volunteers matched for age, serum zinc, copper, cholesterol and triglycerides were measured. Zinc and copper were analyzed by varian atomic absorption spectrophotometer model AA-175, Cholesterol was determined by a rapid method and triglycerides by a special kit. Results of the survey are as follows: Mean serum zinc in the subjects was lower than 30 % of that controls (P<0.001). Mean serum copper in the subjects was greater than 54% of that controls (P<0.001). Mean zinc/copper ratio in the subjects was significantly lower than of that controls. We suggest that the diet of patients after myocardial infarction was regulated base on changes in zinc and copper, especially by attention to the role of zinc in rebuilding of tissue of myocarde.