Trace Elements in Scalp Hair of Leukaemia Patients

June 13, 2025
A person is looking through a microscope in a lab.

This study aimed to determine the concentrations of Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, and Pb in the scalp hair of leukaemia patients and healthy volunteers using an optimized XRF method. Hair samples were categorized based on the type, growth, and age of participants. Results showed that trace elements (TEs) in both groups were positively skewed. Leukemia patients had lower Fe, Cu, Zn, and Pb levels but higher Ni levels compared to controls. The Mann–Whitney U-test showed no significant differences between leukaemia subgroups and controls.


However, significant differences (p < 0.05) were found for Pb, Cu, Ni, and Fe between leukaemia patients and controls. Strong correlations (r > 0.70) were observed among TEs in both groups, with all being significant at p < 0.05. Principal component analysis (PCA) indicated that the type and growth of leukaemia had a greater impact on element loading than age. Ali Khuder, et al. NUKLEONIKA. 2014;59(3):111120

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