Serum zinc and copper status in dyslipidaemic patients with and without established coronary artery disease.

Abstract

Significant differences in copper and zinc status, dietary intake and markers of inflammation were observed in patients with dyslipidaemia, with or without established CAD, compared with control subjects. Differences in serum CRP, copper and caeruloplasmin may be related to a heightened state of inflammation. The imbalance in zinc/copper metabolism may either contribute to the CAD risk or be a consequence of an acute phase response.