Study of some trace elements in serum and ascitic fluid in different stages of schistosomal liver disease

ABSTRACT

Copper, zinc and manganese were estimated in 20 patients of schistosomal hepatic fibrosis [SHF], 10 cases without ascitis and 10 cases with ascitis, and 5 healthy controls. Serum zinc was significantly lower in SHF, with ascitis than control group. Serum copper and manganese were significantly higher in SHF [with or without ascitis] than control group. Zinc concentration [but not copper or manganese] in ascitic fluid showed significant correlation to plasma protein concentration