Objective:

To analyze serum trace element profiles of iron, zinc, and magnesium in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PEX) and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PEXG) compared to age- and gender-matched cataract patients without PEX or PEXG.

Key Findings:

• Significant differences in serum levels of iron, zinc, and magnesium were observed between patients with PEX and those without, with p-values indicating statistical significance.
• PEXG patients exhibited distinct trace element profiles compared to PEX patients without glaucoma.
• Oxidative stress markers were correlated with trace element levels.

Interpretation:

The study suggests that trace element imbalances may play a role in the pathophysiology of PEX and PEXG, highlighting the need for further research into their potential therapeutic implications.

Limitations:

• Small sample size may limit generalizability.
• Exclusion of patients with certain systemic diseases could introduce selection bias.
• Potential dietary influences on serum element concentrations were not fully controlled, which may affect results.

Conclusion:

The findings indicate that serum levels of iron, zinc, and magnesium may be relevant in understanding the mechanisms of PEX and PEXG, warranting further investigation into their potential therapeutic implications.