LEVELS OF COPPER AND ZINC IN DEPRESSION

The study was undertaken to estimate plasma copper and zinc in thirty five depressed patients. Two blood sample were drawn from each patient, one before starting treatment and the second after recov- ery from depression. The results were compared with the thirtyfive normal healthy individuals. The mean plasma copper in controls, depressed patients and in patients after recovery were 106.82, 122.14 and 104.22 Ilg/dl, respectively. ~he copper levels in patients when depressed were significatly higher as compared to controls and after recovery from depression. The mean plasma zinc levels in controls, depressed patients and after recovery were 115.80, 107.62 and 125.68 Ilg/dl, respectively. No significant difference could be obtained between control and depressed patients. However, the values were significantly higher in recovered patients compared to patients with depression.