Homeostasis and Cancer Symptom in Elemental Concentration Profiles of Hair Observed by Fluorescent X-ray Analysis with Synchrotron Radiation

The study analyzed hair samples from 37 donors, including 12 with hepatocellular carcinoma, using fluorescent X-ray analysis with synchrotron radiation to detect trace elements. It found that the concentrations of Ca, Fe, Cu, Zn, and Sr in hair were consistent with serum levels in healthy individuals. However, patients with liver cancer showed unusual increases in Cu and/or Fe due to impaired liver function. The study also discussed the "Calcium paradox," where Ca levels increase due to parathyroid hormone activity in cases of Ca deficiency. The research concluded that hair analysis could be a useful tool for screening serious diseases like cancer and osteoporosis.