Study of trace elements (copper and zinc) in serum & tissue in head & neck malignancies

Abstract

35 cases of head and neck malignancies (biopsy proved) and 15 normal healthy adults as controls were studied to determine the serum and tissue levels of copper and zinc, using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. In head and neck malignancies ; the serum levels of copper was raised while that of zinc lowered down in all cases, corresponding to advancement of the lesion. But the tissue levels of copper and zinc were both raised also in all the cases.