Role of Serum Zinc, Urinary Sodium and Urinary Uric Acid in Multiple Sclerosis in Egypt

Abstract

Background Studies have suggested that zinc (Zn), sodium (Na) and uric acid (UA) have a role in multiple sclerosis (MS). Objectives Aim of study is to measure serum Zn, urinary Na and urinary UA levels in MS patients compared to healthy control (HC) subjects, and investigate the difference between the MS subtypes and correlate it with disease activity and disability. Patients and Methods It is a case control study was carried on 60 clinically definite MS patients, 30 Relapsing Remitting MS (RRMS) and 30 secondary progressive MS (SPMS), recruited from MS unit at Ain Shams University Hospitals, and 30 HC subjects. Results Regarding Zn level, there was no significance between MS and HC groups. However, significant higher level in SPMS group. There was significant higher Zn level in males of HC group only. Regarding Na level, there was significant higher level in MS group and higher level in SPMS group. There were positive correlations with duration of illness, number of relapses per year and EDSS. Regarding UA level, there was significant higher level in MS group and higher level in RRMS group. There was negative correlation with relapses rate. Conclusion The role of Zn level in MS is linked to disability, not its diagnosis nor its activity, due to its disturbed metabolism in CNS diseases. In addition, the role of Na level in MS is linked to higher disease activity and disability. However, the lower UA level in MS is linked to higher relapse rate, but its higher level may be a cause of disease or a consequence to effect of DMTs.