Element Concentrations in Serum, Erythrocytes, Hair, and Urine of Alopecia Patients

The study analyzed trace element concentrations in serum, erythrocytes, hair, and urine of Finnish alopecia patients, focusing on elements like Se, Rb, Zn, Fe, Co, Cs, Mg, Ca, F, Cu, Cr, Ag, and Cd. It found no significant differences in these element concentrations compared to the normal population, nor any tendencies towards excesses or deficiencies. However, a statistically significant difference was observed in the copper content of serum between patients with alopecia areata and alopecia universalis, as well as between those with alopecia areata plus alopecia totalis and alopecia universalis. Some patients had low selenium levels, consistent with the generally low selenium content in the Finnish diet.