Evaluation of some micronutrients, antioxidant biomarkers and total antioxidant capacity in human giardiasis

ABSTRACT

Giardia lamblia, a common parasite of the human small bowel, is responsible for diarrhea, nutritional deficiencies and production of free radicals. Micronutrients regulate many physiological functions and participate in antioxidant defense. Changes in their serum levels occur in several gastrointestinal disorders. The present study aimed to investigate the homeostasis of some micronutrients and antioxidant defense in human giardiasis. The study was designed to compare serum levels of some micronutrients and antioxidant status in 30 patients with symptomatic giardiasis and 30 age- and sex-matched controls. Giardia trophozoites and/or cysts were detected in the stool samples of patients using saline and iodine wet mount preparations and formol ether technique. Levels of magnesium, iron, manganese, copper and chromium were measured using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Vitamin E level was determined as well as total antioxidant capacity [TAC] and serum levels of the antioxidant biomarkers; albumin, total bilirubin and uric acid were evaluated. Giardia-infected patients displayed significantly lower levels of magnesium, iron, manganese, chromium and vitamin E and higher levels of copper and uric acid compared to controls. TAC, albumin and bilirubin in Giardia-infected patients were not significantly different from the controls. The pathophysiological changes in giardiasis alter the homeostasis of some micronutrients. Uric acid constitutes an important antioxidant defense in human giardiasis that may compensate for the deficiency of some antioxidant micronutrients. Prevention and treatment of giardiasis may have a positive impact on the micronutrient status and on the general health of the population