Serum copper and zinc in pregnancy
Prema, K.; Ramalakshmi, B.A.; Neelakumari, S.
Indian Journal of Medical Research 71: 547-553
1980
ISSN/ISBN: 0019-5340 PMID: 7390593 Document Number: 165435
A semi-longitudinal study was undertaken to assess changes in serum Cu and Zn levels during pregnancy among healthy women belonging to different income groups and women suffering from anemia and vitamin B-complex deficiency. The mean serum Cu levels rose from 111 .mu.g/dl in the non-pregnant state to 210 .mu.g/dl at term while serum Zn fell from 110 .mu.g/dl to 55 .mu.g/d. In each period of gestation, the mean, range and frequency distribution of serum Cu and Zn values of healthy women belonging to different income groups were similar. Even women suffering from anemia and B-complex deficiency did not show any deviation in serum Cu and Zn levels. A negative correlation (r = - 0.64) was observed between serum Cu and Zn levels during pregnancy. The mean cord Cu level was 45 .mu.g/dl and cord Zn 94 .mu.g/dl. There was no correlation between maternal serum levels and cord levels of the 2 trace elements.