Analysis of zinc in biological fluids : determinations of serum zinclevels in normals and patients suffering from myocardial infarctionand deep vein thrombosis

Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy with a Carbon Rod Atomiser has been used to determine serum zinc levels in normal subjects and in patients suffering from myocardial infarction and deep vein thrombosis. The results suggest that the condition of myocardial infarction and deep vein thrombosis may be associated with a reduced serum zinc level. The value of oral zinc therapy for deep vein thrombosis has been evaluated. A seven day supplementation with 15mg zinc sulphate per day is sufficient to bring serum zinc levels back to normal values. In addition, this work suggests that patients suffering from deep vein thrombosis may benefit clinically from a course of zinc supplementation.