TRACE ELEMENTS IN SERA FROM PATIENTS WITH VISCERAL LEISHMANIASIS

Abstract

Trace elements are known to have pivotal role in human health and disease. Present investigation employed PIXE analysis to probe into the elemental profile of patients suffering from visceral Leishmaniasis. Remarkable alterations were observed in concentration of elements like Cl , K , Ca , Mn , Fe , Cu , Zn . The pattern of enhancement of elemental concentration corresponds to the progression of the disease. Additionally, our present data reflect probable correlation between alteration in trace elemental status and other pathological syndromes associated with Leishmaniasis. The possibility of considering trace elements as a diagnostic marker for a better understanding of the disease is discussed.