Heavy metals such as lead and chromium can be in various forms, including free ions, metal compounds or carcinogenic particles. in general, carcinogenesis and genetic toxicity of these metals are based on three major mechanisms, namely, oxidative stress, dna alteration and disturbances of signal transmission pathways.because of the various complications of chemotherapy, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of adriamycin and cyclophosphamide (ac)chemotherapy on serum levels of lead and chromium in female with breast cancerand the relationship between age, disease stage and hormonal receptors (her-2, pr, er).
Methods
Blood samples were taken from 50 patients with breast cancer before and after the completion of 3 cycles of chemotherapy with ac regimen. serum lead and chromiumions were measured by standard atomic absorption method. to compare indices before and after chemotherapy paired t-test and for other indices, t-independent test were used.
Results
After 3periods of chemotherapy, the level of chromium and lead showed a significant increase (p<0.05). the modifications of the minor elements in different age groups, stage of the disease, and the status of hormone receptors (her-2, pr, er) were not significant at all.
Conclusion
Based on our findings, the acchemotherapy regimen in breast cancer patients is associated with increased serum chromium and lead, which can exacerbate the level of oxidative stress in these patients. it also seems that these changes do not necessarily depend on the patient's age, stage of disease, and hormone receptor status.
