Plasma Transferrin and Caeruloplasmin Levels in Nigerians with Diabetes Mellitus

Transferrin and ceruloplasmin levels in Nigerians diagnosed with diabetes mellitus were studied. Eighty subjects consisting of 40 diabetes mellitus patients and 40 apparently healthy individuals who served as controls were involved. Transferrin and ceruloplasmin levels were estimated using single radial immuno diffusion method. Results showed that Ceruloplasmin levels were significantly higher (p<0.05) in diabetic patients than in control subjects. Transferrin levels were on the other hand significantly lower (p<0.05) in diabetic patients when compared to the controls. The study reveals that both Ceruloplasmin and transferrin levels in Nigerian diabetes patients may be useful markers in monitoring and controlling diabetes mellitus.