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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Hair Zinc Levels and the Efficacy of Oral Zinc Supplementation in Children with Atopic Dermatitis

June 13, 2025
Oral zinc supplementation may offer significant benefits for patients with atopic dermatitis who exhibit zinc deficiency. While this study provides compelling evidence for its efficacy, further research is needed to establish standardized guidelines for zinc supplementation in managing AD.
A doctor is talking to a child with cancer while a woman looks on.

Interaction Between Carcinogenic and Anti-Carcinogenic Trace Elements in the Scalp Hair Samples of Different Types of Pakistani Female Cancer Patients.

June 13, 2025
The study demonstrated that elevated levels of heavy metals such as arsenic, cadmium, and nickel, alongside reduced levels of essential trace elements like selenium and zinc, are associated with an increased risk of cancer. This highlights the critical role of trace and toxic element imbalances in carcinogenic processes.
A clipboard with a spreadsheet on it and a pen on a table.

Level of Essential and Toxic Metals in Urban Adolescents Hair: Preliminary Study.

June 13, 2025
The experimental data showed significant differences in metal levels by sex. Concentrations were determined using atomic absorption spectrometry after washing and mineralization. Notably, lead levels in schoolboys' hair were 1.50 g/g (Salerno) and 1.44 g/g (Solimena), with high nickel levels at Solimena (2.79 g/g) and unsafe arsenic levels at Scafati (2.47 µg/g).