Changes in serum level of trace elements in pulmonary tuberculosis patients during anti-tuberculosis treatment

Tuberculosis is spreading throughout the globe, while it is a crucial cause of death in developing countries. In this study, trace elements concentrations and their alterations were determined in TB patients during anti-tuberculosis treatment period. We have collected blood samples from a total of 180 TB patients with pulmonary Tuberculosis, and 180 healthy controls in Sistan, Iran. The serum iron, copper, lead, calcium, arsenic and selenium concentrations were detected at the beginning of anti-TB chemotherapy, at the end of 2nd, 4th and 6th month after treatment initiation. Data were then analyzed using SPSS version 20. Although Ca, Pb, and As levels did not change during the treatment period, serum concentrations of Fe, Zn, Cu, and Se were diminished in TB patients significantly during treatment in comparison with controls (P < 0.001).We also found that there was a significant difference in the Cu/Se and Cu/Zn ratios in tuberculosis patients in comparison with healthy individuals (P < 0.001). Trace elements serum concentrations are affected by TB infection and anti-TB therapy. Their serum levels were strongly perturbed during infection as well as anti-TB treatment.