Serum trace elements before and 3 months after renal transplantation in kidney recipients: An Iranian study

BackgroundDecreased serum levels of trace elements seen in long-term hemodialysied patients, suppress immune system. The aim of this study was to find if any changes occur in trace elements after transplantation and assess the correlation between post-transplantation renal function and levels of trace elements.MethodsLong-term hemodialysied patients with underlying ESRD were divided into two groups, who were undergone transplantation (n = 54) and were not (n = 69). Levels of lithium, magnesium, iron, zinc and copper measured 24 h before and three months after transplantation in both groups. The transplanted patients' serum levels of creatinine were assessed at same intervals as an indicator of graft function.Results54 patients, 18 men (33%), 36 women (67%) with mean age of 47.67 ± 14.33 years underwent transplantation between April 2010 and April 2011. While serum iron (p < 0.001) and copper levels (p < 0.001) significantly increased after transplantation, there was a statistically significant reduction in magnesium levels (p < 0.001). No significant differences were noted in zinc (p = 0.17) and lithium (p = 0.080) levels in comparison to control group. A significant relationship was noted between levels of magnesium (p = 0.015) and zinc (p = 0.025) and creatinine within three months after transplantation.ConclusionOur study showed transplantation alters serum levels of trace elements in long-term hemodialysied patients with underlying ESRD and affects immunity and the results of renal function (Cr levels).