Serum Zinc Levels in Celiac Paediatric Patients on Gluten Free Diet

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder with both genetic and environmental factors involved in its pathogenesis. It characterizes by small intestinal atrophy and malabsorption of essential nutrients, vitamins and trace elements due to ingestion of gluten. Zinc is an essential trace element for maintaining integrity of intestinal mucosa, immunity, and growth in children. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate serum zinc levels in celiac paediatric patients on Gluten Free Diet (GFD) and compares it with healthy children. Sera of 22 celiac paediatric patients on GFD and 16 healthy children as a control group were obtained. The samples were prepared and zinc level was estimated via atomic emission spectrophotometer. Ninety one percent of celiac children on GFD had low zinc. The median plasma zinc concentration was significantly lower in celiac children on GFD (0.20 μg/ml) versus controls (0.86 μg/ml) with p value of < 0.0001. The current study shows that serum zinc concentrations are decreased significantly in celiac paediatric patients on GFD, suggesting zinc deficiency. Thus, good dietary guidance, zinc supplement therapy, and regular monitoring of zinc levels are highly recommended for celiac children on GFD.