Trace Element Levels in Blood Serum and Colon Tissue in Colorectal Cancer

The analyses of Cu, Mg, Se, and Zn in blood serum and colon tissue samples from twenty colorectal cancer patients by atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) were accomplished. Serum levels of these elements were compared with contents found in control group samples. The mean serum levels of Se were lowered in colorectal cancer compared to controls. The observed serum content of Zn was significantly higher in patients. Copper and magnesium serum contents did not significantly differ as compared to healthy population. The negative correlation (R = �0.444) between selenium levels in serum and colon tissue of cancerous patients has been found. The cancerous colorectal tissue showed content of Cu (6.08 ± 3.78) µ gg −1 , Mg (753.59 ± 310.54) µ gg −1 , Se (1.17 ± 0.73) µ gg −1 , and Zn (69.20 ± 21.03) µ gg −1 .