Serum copper and zinc concentrations in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy: a controlled study.

A prospective, controlled study was undertaken in parturients with normal pregnancy and in parturients with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (IHC) to assess changes in maternal serum copper and zinc concentrations. Cord serum levels of these trace metals were measured, as well. Copper and zinc were measured by particle-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) analysis on two occasions during pregnancy; and immediately, 5 days and 5 weeks after delivery. Maternal serum copper was significantly higher in the IHC group as compared to the control group at 36-40 weeks of pregnancy and immediately and 5 days after delivery. There were no statistically significant differences between the control and study groups for maternal and cord serum zinc and cord copper concentrations. A positive correlation between maternal serum copper and serum aspartate aminotransferase was observed.