Serum iron, zinc and copper among Indian patients with leukoplakia, oral submucous fibrosis and oral squamous cell carcinoma

The serum levels of iron, zinc and copper in patients with leukoplakia, oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and compare them with normal subjects is of interest to dentists. The effort was to determine a parameter that will aid the initial diagnosis, a more efficient therapy plan, and ultimately a better prognosis. Participants in the study comprised 40 healthy normal volunteers, 60 patients diagnosed with leukoplakia, 60 patients diagnosed with OSCC, and 60 patients diagnosed with OSMF. After fasting for the whole night, blood samples were taken from each participant. There was analysis by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) for the determination of trace elements; iron, copper, and zinc. The serum levels of iron and zinc in normal subjects was greater as compared to patients with leukoplakia, OSMF and OSCC. There was increase in serum copper levels in patients with oral leukoplakia, OSMF and OSCC as compared with normal subjects.