The concentration of the elements Zn, Cu, Mg, Fe, Na, and K in human amniotic fluid during birth

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Abstract
To determine the influence of the course of pregnancy and exogenous factors on the quantitative distribution of the cations Na, K, Mg, Zn, Cu and Fe in amniotic fluid, these cations were assayed in the amniotic fluid of 197 pregnant women with atom absorption spectrophotometry. There were 124 normal pregnancies, 34 with toxemia, 23 with green amniotic fluid and 15 smokers. The results of Na, K and Mg concentrations correspond well with previous values. Normal mean values for Zn, Ca, and Fe are different from those previously published. The course of pregnancy and exogenous factors do not influence Na concentration in the amniotic fluid. Smokers, compared to normal controls, had significantly increased K in green amniotic fluid. Mg concentration in green amniotic fluid is also significantly increased. Values for Zn, Cu and Fe in pathologic amniotic fluids was significantly above normal means. This corresponds to the significant decrease in Cu and Zn values in blood and serum of newborns and infants in various disease states. The essential elements Zn, Cu and Mg are important for the course of pregnancy and for the development of fetus and newborn. The importance of the replacement of bioelements, especially Zn, during pregnancy has been indicated. During pregnancy essential cations should be determined in serum or, better yet, in whole blood and amniotic fluid of the mother to avoid the pathophysiologic consequences of severe cation disturbances in mother and infant by appropriate replacement therapy.