Relationship between seborrheic dermatitis and trace element levels

Aim: This study aimed to assess plasma trace elements and serum biochemical parameters and their potential associations in seborrheic dermatitis. Material and Method: This study included 16 patients with seborrheic dermatitis and 16 healthy control individuals with similar age and gender characteristics. Biochemical parameters (TSH, serum iron, ferritin, vitamin B12, HGB, WBC, RBC, and leukocyte subgroups) were analyzed from serum samples. The plasma levels of Na, Mg, Al, K, Ca, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, and Sr were determined by ICP-MS. Statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics v27.0. Data normality was assessed by the Shapiro–Wilk test; independent samples t-test or Mann–Whitney U test was applied as appropriate. Correlations were analyzed using Spearman's rank correlation, and p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: According to the analysis results, Mn, Zn, Mg, Al, K, Ca, Fe, Cu, and As levels showed statistically significant differences between the seborrheic dermatitis and control groups (p<0.05). Mn, Zn, Ca, and Cu levels were found to be higher in the control group, while Mg, Al, K, Fe, and As levels were higher in the seborrheic dermatitis group. In biochemical evaluations, TSH, serum iron, ferritin, vitamin B12, and WBC values were found to be significantly higher in the control group. Correlation analyses demonstrated significant associations between trace elements and inflammatory, metabolic, and immune-related parameters. Conclusion: These findings indicate that seborrheic dermatitis is associated with systemic alterations, including trace element imbalances and inflammatory changes. The observed shifts in mineral levels suggest that disrupted mineral homeostasis may contribute to disease pathophysiology.