Analysis of serum boron, arsenic and aluminium in Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: A pilot study

Abstract

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) is a common autoimmune disease with its unclear pathogenesis. HT, widely diagnosed in women, targets thyroid gland and its parenchyma. Thyroid gland is damaged by pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators due to an imbalanced immune system. Trace elements play vital roles in many physiological and pathological inflammatory process. Dysfunctions of reactive oxygen species production and anti-oxidant protective systems in HT effect alterations of trace/toxic element levels. The biological, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects of boron (B) on endocrine system have been pointed out in several studies. Arsenic (As) and aluminium (Al), as environmental toxic elements, induce oxidative stress and inflammation also including thyroid gland. The present pilot study was aimed to evaluate alterations of serum B, As and Al in patients with HT. The individuals were categorized in two groups; patients with HT (HT Group, n=30) and healthy controls (HC Group, n=30). Serum element levels were measured using ICP-OES. Serum B and As levels in HT Group were significantly higher than HC Group (p 0.001 and p 0.05; respectively). There was a significant positive correlation between serum As-Al levels in HT Group. The present study revealed that higher serum B levels in HT might present its re-distribution form tissues and the protective effect of B against inflammation due to oxidative stress. Otherwise, higher serum As and Al, and their positive correlation in HT express their hazardous effects on thyroid dysfunction. Further studies should be warranted to determine effects of a variety trace/toxic elements in HT by means of molecular and physiopathological pathways. Monitorization of serum elements should be considered as beneficial biomarkers for thyroid functions.