Evaluation of Serum Ca, Mg, Cu, Fe, Zn and Mn in Conversion Disorder Patients

Abstract

The aim of the study was to determine the concentration of serum Ca, Mg, Cu, Fe, Zn and Mn in
Bangladeshi conversion disorder patients compared to control subjects and to correlate the changes, if any, with
different socio-demographic factors and nutritional status. Forty five conversion disorder patients were randomly
recruited. Forty five healthy control subjects were also recruited by matching the socio-demographic status to that of
the patients. Blood samples were analyzed to determine the concentration of serum Ca, Mg, Cu, Fe, Zn and Mn using
atomic absorption spectroscopy. Except for Mg, the concentrations of the other elements (Cu, Fe, Zn, Ca, and Mn)
decreased in patients compared to control, but the changes were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Serum Mg
level increased insignificantly in patients (p > 0.05). No significant relationship was found between the sociodemographic
variables and serum Ca, Mg, Cu, Zn and Mn levels, except for serum Fe, where a significant negative
correlation was found between serum Fe level and BMI (r = –0.428; p = 0.023).