The serum's zinc measurement is used to check for its possible deficiency.
More information
Zinc (Zn) is an important trace element that encompasses carbonic anhydrase, alkaline phosphatase, RNA and DNA polymerases, alcoholic dehydrogenase, and many other important enzymes and proteins.
The decrease in zinc concentration in the body occurs either because it is not absorbed by the diet (excess copper or iron makes it difficult to absorb) or is lost after absorption. Dietary deficiency may be due to absence (such as parenteral nutrition) or because zinc binds to dietary fiber and is not absorbed. Excess copper and iron in the diet can interfere with zinc absorption. When absorbed, the most common loss route is through exudates from open wounds or the gastrointestinal tract. Zinc depletion occurs in patients with burns who lose zinc in the secretions of burns. Hepatic cirrhosis causes excessive loss of zinc by enhancing renal excretion. Other diseases that cause a decrease in zinc levels are ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, enteritis, celiac disease, intestinal bypass, neoplastic diseases, and increased catabolism induced by anabolic steroids. Poor nutrition can also lead to low levels of zinc.
An increase in serum zinc concentration is not of primary clinical importance. Much of the zinc passes through the gastrointestinal tract and is excreted in the feces. Some of the zinc absorbed is also excreted in the urine. The only known effect of excessive zinc intake is related to the fact that zinc interferes with the absorption of copper, which can lead to hypokalaemia.
Zinc is a crucial ingredient for active wound healing.
Possible Interpretations of Pathological Values
- Increase: Anemia, arteriosclerosis, coronary artery disease, dietary intake of acidic foods or drinks from galvanized containers, industrial exposure to zinc (welding), primary osteosarcoma. Medications: Cisplatin, corticosteroids, estrogens, interferon, oral contraceptives, phenytoin, thiazides
- Decrease: Acrodermatitis enteropathica, alopecia, alcoholism, anemia (hemolytic), burns (severe), celiac disease, liver cirrhosis, diarrhea, cholecystitis, liver metastases, hypoalbuminemia, hypogonadism, infection (acute), leukemia, lymphoma, malabsorption, myocardial infarction, poor dietary intake, pregnancy (third trimester), parenteral nutrition, renal failure (chronic), stress, thalassemia, typhoid fever, tuberculosis (pulmonary), Wilson's disease. Medications: Antimetabolites, chlorthalidone, cisplatin, diuretics, estrogens, histidine, penicillamine
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for diagnosing and monitoring all pathological conditions. Between 70% and 80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased."
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted solely based on the numerical result of a single analysis. They should be interpreted in relation to each individual case, family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon, we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory, and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
