Serum levels of zinc, copper and magnesium in polycystic ovarian syndrome: A cross Sectional study

Abstract

Introduction: Polycystic ovarian syndrome is the most common endocrinopathy affecting approximately 5 to 21% of reproductive age women. Although the exact aetiology of PCOS is unknown, recent reports have indicated the association between PCOS and disturbance in trace elements (e.g. zinc, copper and magnesium) levels and oxidative stress. Aim and Objective: To compare serum levels of essential trace elements Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu) and Magnesium (Mg) among patients with PCOS and healthy controls of age group (15-35 years) from same socio economic status. Material and Methods: Present study was carried out in 240 patients (120 cases and 120 healthy controls) of age group (15-35 years) and serum levels of Zinc, Copper and magnesium were compared in PCOS women and healthy controls by using colorimetric method Results: High baseline serum concentration of zinc, copper and magnesium were found in both i.e. women with PCOS and the healthy controls and it may be attributed to the socio-cultural and environmental characteristics of this population. Serum zinc and magnesium levels were found to be significantly higher while serum copper levels were significantly lower in women with PCOS in comparison to healthy controls in present study. Conclusion: The results of the present study provide clues to explore the role of trace elements in pathogenesis of PCOS and provide an area of interest for further clinical trials in PCOS.