Research on variations of serum concentrations of divalent cations for patients with malignant cancers of the oro-maxillo-facial area

Divalent cation exercise numerous roles in the body, including the oral cavity. The aim of the study was the highlight of possible variations of concentrations of divalent cations (Ca2+, Mg2+, Fe2+, Zn2+, Cu2+) in serum, for the patients with oro-maxillofacial malignant cancers compared to a control group, showing no malignant cancers pathology (at any other level). The study was conducted on 104 adult patients with primary epithelial malignancy in stages II and III, localized on the lips, tongue, oral mucosa and salivary glands, admitted to Maxillofacial Surgery Clinical Hospital "Sf. Spiridon" Iasi during 2 years, compared with a control group patients. Serum concentration of the studied cations was performed by atomic absorption spectrofotometry. Our study determined significant decrease of zinc and copper concentration in serum and increases, both in serum and saliva. Also it was found the decrease of the ratio of zinc and copper concentrations in serum. Serum iron value (mean ± standard deviation in mg / L) for women and men in the control group, compared to the group of patients with malignant cancers of the oral and maxillo-facial area and overall, reveal the differences with statistical significance.