Master's thesis at the College of Science at the University of Kirkuk

A thesis discusses the development of spectroscopic methods for the determination of some trace elements for patients with kidney failure in the city of Kirkuk

In the presence of Prof. Dr. Abdullah Ali Muhammad Tamim,  Assistant President of the University of Kirkuk for Scientific Affairs and Acting Dean of the College of Science, a master's thesis was discussed at that College. The thesis entitled "Developing Spectral Methods for Estimating Some Trace Elements for Patients with Kidney Failure in the City of Kirkuk" by student Huda Ahmed Abed, under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Abdul Majeed Khurshid Ahmed.

The study measured the concentrations of trace elements (zinc, copper, magnesium, calcium, iron, phosphorus) in the blood serum of patients with chronic renal failure in the city of Kirkuk using the techniques of chromatic spectroscopy and atomic absorption. In addition, it measures some biochemical variables (urea, creatinine, albumin, total protein) in patients with chronic renal failure and compare them with healthy people. It also studies the effect of sex on trace element concentrations and biochemical variables.

The study concluded that there is a significant difference in the concentrations of these elements as well as the concentrations of biochemical variables in patients with chronic renal failure compared to healthy people. Using spectroscopic methods, zinc, iron, and calcium significantly decreased in the concentrations of in the blood serum of patients with kidney failure while copper, magnesium and phosphorus increased. Using non-flame atomic absorption technique, copper and magnesium significantly rose and zinc dropped, confirming the similarity of results of two techniques. Furthermore, there was no effect of the sex on the biochemical variables (urea, albumin, total protein) except creatinine and calcium.

At the end of her study, the researcher recommended conducting comprehensive studies to estimate some other trace elements in patients with kidney failure. She also prefers a low diet low in protein and rich in iron and calcium to reduce the negative results and their harmful effects on the health of patients with kidney failure. Avoiding the overuse of medicines and painkillers that harm the kidneys is advised. The study suggests the analysis of trace elements as an important biomarker.