Serum Electrolyte Values and Blood Oxidative Stress Parameters in Patients with Focal and Generalized Epilepsy

INTRODUCTION: Because epilepsy pathogenesis is affected by serum minerals and antioxidant enzymes, this study was designed to evaluate whether there was a relationship among electrolytes (Na, Ca, K, Cl, P, Mg), trace elements (Fe, Zn, Cu) and oxidative stress in patients with generalized or focal epilepsy.
METHODS: Twenty healthy individuals (control group), and 20 focal and 20 generalized epilepsy patients (patient groups) were included in the study. Control and patient groups were matched with age (30-40 years old), body mass index (25 -28) and sex (10 males and 10 females). Serum Na, Ca, K, Cl, P, Mg and Fe levels were analyzed in an autoanalyzer, serum Zn and Cu were analyzed in a mass spectrophotometer, total antioxidant status, total oxidant status and myeloperoxidase levels were measured spectrophotometrically.
RESULTS: The oxidative stress index increased (p<0.001) and the serum Na levels decreased (p<0.001) in focal epilepsy patients compared to the controls.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: It has been concluded these changes may make focal epilepsy patients more susceptible to seizures than generalized epilepsy patients.