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Article Type

Original Study

Abstract

Objective This study aimed to determine the relation of serum levels of iron and zinc trace elements during the course of rhinoscleroma and stage of disease. Background Several risk factors have been associated with rhinoscleroma such as poor hygiene and nutritional deficiencies. Therefore, iron and zinc deficiencies may be predisposing factors to the disease or may be a sequel of the disease as they are essential for cell-mediated immunity, which affects the pathophysiology of the disease. Patients and methods Seventy-eight participants (39 cases diagnosed with rhinoscleroma and 39 controls) were enrolled into the study. Patients were subjected to nasal biopsy and a histopathological examination to diagnose rhinoscleroma, and laboratory assessments of serum levels of iron and zinc to determine the changes in serum levels of iron and zinc in patients diagnosed with rhinoscleroma. Results There was a significant decrease in the serum level of iron in the case group compared with the control group (P = 0.00) and a significant decrease in the serum level of zinc in the case group compared with the control group (P = 0.00). Also, there was a significant decrease in the serum levels of iron and zinc in the late-stage cases. Conclusion Serum levels of iron and zinc were significantly lower in patients diagnosed with rhinoscleroma than controls, reflecting the crucial role of iron and zinc in cell-mediated immunity in such patients.

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