Serum Copper In Thalassemic Adolescents: Relations to Bone Mass Abnormalities

This study aims at determining serum copper profile in β-thalassemic patients
and the possible association with bone mineral density (BMD) abnormalities. In
one hundred thirty one transfusion-dependent β-thalassemic adolescents, serum
levels of copper were measured by Flame-Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry.
BMD values at lumbar (L1-L4) and femoral neck were determined by dual x-ray
absorptiometry (DXA). Food frequency questionnaire was used to determine
patients' dietary copper and calcium intake. Patients’ history of treatment and
demographic data were obtained. Low serum copper was seen in 67.7% of female
and 75.7% of male patients. Female patients with low therapeutic index (<0.025)
had higher serum copper level (p<0.05). Mean of copper intakes were 0.41±1.08
mg/day in the evaluated patients. Serum copper showed no association with BMD
abnormalities neither in lumbar nor in femoral areas. We need more studies to
explore different causes of low serum copper levels in our patients; however
dietary modification and oral supplementation (under close observation) in these
patients are recommended.