Evaluation of trace elements in riedelrsquo;s struma using energy dispersive x-ray fluorescence analysis

Abstract

Aim: Role of trace elements (TE) in etiology and pathogenesis of Riedel’s disease (RD) is unclear. The aim of this exploratory study was to assess whether there were significant changes in thyroid tissue levels of five TE (Br, Fe Rb, Sr, and Zn) are present in the fibrotic transformed thyroid. Methods: Five TE of thyroid tissue were determined in 6 patients with RD and 105 healthy populations. The measurements were performed using energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescent analysis. Results: Elevated mean values of Br and Rb content were found in thyroid with RD in comparison with normal level (in 6.4 and 1.8 times, respectively). Conclusions: There are considerable changes in some TE contents in tissue of thyroid with RD. Thus, it is reasonable to assume that the levels of these TE in thyroid tissue can be used as RD markers. However, this topic needs additional studies.