Ron Allison, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

To evaluate vitamins, amino acids (AA), mineral balance, and analytical laboratory tests in 10 lung cancer patients (ages 40-86) receiving radiation.

Hair analysis for potentially toxic elements (PTE) and essential elements (EE) were performed with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Analytical laboratory tests performed on plasma included 34 AA, comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), complete blood count (CBC), and fecal analysis. A nutritional questionnaire obtained food and supplement intake information.

Increased levels of PTEs identified in this cohort were Pt, As, Sn, Cd, Sb, Pb, and Al. High total toxic representation (TTR) was identified in 20%, and very high TTR were found in 30% of patients. An imbalance for all EE was identified in 100% of patients. Abnormal ferritin levels were found in 50% of patients; homocysteine (70%), hemoglobin A1C (50%), Ultra Sensitive C-Reactive Protein (US-CRP) (60%), and amino acids (60%). None of the patients met the minimum daily required intake of fruits and vegetables on nutritional questionnaire.Discussion: The presence of PTE and imbalance of EE can lead to disruption of protein synthesis, catabolism, neurotoxicity, myopathy, hemolytic anemia, renal failure, inflammatory processes, and ability to produce antioxidant enzymes. High levels of homocysteine, hemoglobin A1C and US-CRP may lead to inflammation, increased probability of clot formation, proliferation of tumor cells, oxidative stress, and aggravated immunologic response.

The presence of PTE and imbalance of EE, together with abnormal serum chemistries and inadequate nutrition, have been identified in this group of patients, which may contribute to radiation-induced toxicity and cancer-related symptoms. Clinical correlation of these levels prior, during and after oncologic therapy may assist in designing rational intervention, which may include nutritional intervention, chelation of PTE, and mineral and vitamin supplementation, which may improve outcomes in this cohort of patients.

Allison, R, Profile of Vitamins, Minerals, and Amino Acids in Lung Cancer Patients Undergoing Radiation Therapy.  Radiological Society of North America 2008 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, February 18 - February 20, 2008 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2008/7000174.html