Plasma zinc and magnesium alterations in acute myocardial infarction.

In 31 patients suffering from acute myocardial infarction plasma zinc and magnesium concentrations were measured. In acute infarction plasma zinc concentrations were strikingly decreased and plasma magnesium concentration slightly decreased. A close correlation between fall in zinc concentrations and the rise of serum CPK in these patients could be observed. No correlations were found between infarct localisation and sex and alterations in zinc concentrations. In contrast, a close correlation between fall in zinc content and severity of infarction occurred. Thus, the observed alterations in plasma zinc probably can be used as a diagnostic and prognostic indicator. Furthermore it should be considered whether zinc substitution would be of therapeutical benefit in patients suffering from acute myocardial infarction.