OBJECTIVES: In this cross-sectional case-control study, albumin and globulin profile in the serum of opium and heroine addicts have been compared with correspondent values in a matched control group. METHODS: Opioid consumption was confirmed by laboratory diagnostic tests on urine samples and protein electrophoresis of serum was performed to determine the concentration and profile of serum proteins. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in albumin, alpha(1)-globulin, alpha(2)-globulin, and beta-globulin concentration among groups. Gamma-globulin concentration in opium and heroin addicts showed no significant difference, but it was significantly lower in comparison to the control group. CONCLUSION: This finding may be attributed to the higher probability of infectious diseases in opioids addicts.
OBJECTIVES: In this cross-sectional case-control study, albumin and globulin profile in the serum of opium and heroine addicts have been compared with correspondent values in a matched control group. METHODS: Opioid consumption was confirmed by laboratory diagnostic tests on urine samples and protein electrophoresis of serum was performed to determine the concentration and profile of serum proteins. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in albumin, alpha(1)-globulin, alpha(2)-globulin, and beta-globulin concentration among groups. Gamma-globulin concentration in opium and heroin addicts showed no significant difference, but it was significantly lower in comparison to the control group. CONCLUSION: This finding may be attributed to the higher probability of infectious diseases in opioids addicts.