Publication Details
Abstract
Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common metabolic complications of pregnancy and is a major cause of fetal morbidity and mortality. Micronutrients have significant influences on the health of pregnant women and the developing fetus. Trace elements such as zinc and copper are essential for various biochemical reactions, and their metabolism has been reported to alter diabetes mellitus, potentially playing a role in its pathogenesis and progression. However, serum zinc and copper levels in GDM are not well understood and require further investigation.
Aim: To assess the plasma levels of copper and zinc in pregnancies complicated with gestational diabetes mellitus.
Method: A prospective case–control study at Al-Kadhimiya Teaching Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, from May 1, 2012, to April 30, 2013. One hundred pregnant women with gestational age between 24 and 32 weeks were enrolled, divided into two groups: 50 with GDM and 50 healthy controls. Groups were matched for maternal age, gestational age, parity, and body mass index. Venous blood samples were collected from all participants for fasting and postprandial blood glucose, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), and plasma zinc and copper measurements. Zinc and copper concentrations were determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometry.
Results: Plasma zinc concentration was significantly lower in the GDM group (mean ± SD: 6.13 ± 0.78 µmol/L) compared to controls (p = 0.0001). Plasma copper concentration was higher in the GDM group (24.14 ± 2.80 µmol/L) than in controls (23.85 ± 3.78 µmol/L), but this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.662).
Conclusion: Hyperglycaemia in pregnancy complicated with gestational diabetes mellitus negatively affects plasma zinc status but does not significantly influence plasma copper levels.