Comparison of some serum copper parameters in trained professional soccer players and control subjects.

Some serum copper variables were assessed in 19 male professional soccer players involved in alternating aerobic-anaerobic physical activity and in a control group of 24 male subjects engaged in ordinary physical activity. In the soccer player's group, lower serum ceruloplasmin levels and lower serum ceruloplasmin biological activity were found than in the control group. Serum copper levels were comparable in both groups. Reduction of the levels of ceruloplasmin could affect its biological activity, with possible impairment of the physiological functions related to this oxidative activity. The results suggest that more attention should be paid to serum copper and ceruloplasmin in soccer players.