Determination of Tissue Trace Element Levels with Atomic Absorption Spectrometry in Varicose Vein Patients

Objective: The presence of varicose veins in the lower extremities is a pathology affecting many people in the world. In the etiology, presence of mechanical and intrinsic factors is suggested. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the local factors by measuring trace elements, Zn, Cu and Fe levels in varicose vein tissue samples. Materials and Methods: Our study was carried out on 40 subjects, 40 of whom were operated for coronary artery bypass graft having healthy saphenous vein, and 40 with primary varicose veins in lower extremity. Zn, Cu and Fe were measured in venous tissue samples. Results: Zn levels were significantly lower in the study group whereas Fe levels were significantly higher in the study group compared to the control group. Although Cu levels were higher in the study group compared to the control group, this difference was not significant. In the study group, no correlation was observed in terms of trace element levels. Conclusion: Low levels of Zn in tissue samples were thought to be associated with decreased antioxidant activity. Increased Cu level may be due to increased collagen and elastin production. We assume that increased Fe accumulation in tissues in the study group was triggered oxidative stress by adsorbing on the damaged tissue