Plasma Concentrations of the Trace Elements Copper, Zinc, Lead and Selenium in Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder at Zagazig University Hospitals

Abstract

Background: Autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) has a multifactorial etiology involving interactions between genes, environment, and diet. Among the environmental factors that have received significant attention related to ASD are toxic metals, such as lead (Pb). Given the importance of zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) metabolism for healthy neurological functioning and detoxification of heavy metals. Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element having a very narrow range between deficient, essential, and toxic doses. Objective: To evaluate the association between the level of serum Cu, Zn, Pb, and Se in children with ASD. Patients and Methods: Our case-control study was carried out in the psychiatric and neurology clinic, Pediatric Department, Zagazig University Hospital, during the period 2018 - 2019. It enrolled 42 children, (13 males and 8 females) with autism diagnosed by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR) and the Childhood Autism Rating Scales (CARS) (with no other medical disease). The control group enrolled 21 apparently healthy children. Results: There was a statistically significant difference between the studied groups regarding the presence of plasma zinc and selenium (lower in the autistic group). There was a statistically significant difference between the studied groups regarding the presence of copper and plasma lead (higher in the autistic group). There was a statistically significant negative correlation between plasma selenium and lead level. Conclusion: Our results suggested an association between serum Cu, Zn, Pb, and Se in children with ASD.