Research Article

Altered Blood Levels of certain heavy metals in Iraqi autistic children

Abstract

Autism is a developmental condition that affects people all their lives and is usually identified in children. It is accompanied by several physiologic and homeostatic changes including. The aim of this work was to evaluate the blood concentration of certain heavy metals (Nickel, Chromium, Manganese, and Zinc) in children with autism. Blood samples were collected from 40 normal children and 40 autistic ones and the blood concentrations of these metals were assessed. Our findings showed significant differences between control group and autism cases assessment of some heavy metals in children with autism. Serum samples taken from children with autism and control showed a significant difference in the levels of these heavy metals, with children with autism having significantly higher levels of nickel and chromium and significantly lower concentrations of manganese and zinc.