Evolution of Status of Trace Elements and Metallothioneins in Patients with COVID-19: Relationship with Clinical, Biochemical, and Inflammatory Parameters

The inflammatory reaction and pathogenesis of COVID-19 may be modulated by circulating trace elements (Iron (Fe), Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu), Manganese (Mn)) Metallothioneins (MTs). Thus, the present study aimed to investigate their relationship with clinical, biochemical, parameters in patients at early Intensive Care Unit (ICU) phase. Critically ill (n = 86) were monitored from first day ICU admission until third stay. Serum samples used assess mineral levels via Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) MT differential pulse voltammetry. Levels Cu MTs significantly decreased after 3 days (p < 0.05), increasing prevalence Cu-deficient values 50% 65.3% 0.015). Fe Zn shown have a predictive value for mortality severity. suggests element deficiency risk factor during treatment COVID-19, as it is related different biochemical clinical parameters, indicating possible beneficial effect restoring proper these micronutrients.