The levels of copper, zinc and magnesium in type II diabetic patients complicated with foot infections

Changes in levels of trace elements and magnesium (Mg) may contribute to progression of diabetes mellitus (DM) and development of the complications. The aim of this study was to measure the levels of Copper (Cu), Zinc ( Zn), Mg and Cu/Zn ratios in diabetic foot infected patients (DFI) compared to controlled diabetic patients and healthy controls. 50 patients complicated with DFI, 50 controlled diabetic patients without any complications and 100 age and sex matched healthy subjects were enrolled in the study. Fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c, Cu, Zn and Mg were measured. One-Way ANOVA test was used to compare three different groups. Correlations between different variables were analysed using Pearson’s correlation coefficients(r). The mean values of Cu and Zn were higher in patients with DFI and DM compared to controls (P < 0.001). Cu/Zn ratios were higher in DM compared to DFI and control groups (P < 0.001). Serum Mg levels were lower in all diabetic patients. Elevation of Cu in DFI and DM groups was positively correlated with Cu/Zn ratios and elevation of Zn is negatively correlated. Our findings indicate an association between increased Zn concentrations and DFI.