Plasma Copper and Zinc Concentration in Individuals with Autism Correlate with Selected Symptom Severity

Aim To assess plasma zinc and copper concentration in individuals with autism and correlate these levels with symptom severity. Subjects and Methods Plasma from 102 autistic individuals, and 18 neurotypical controls, were tested for plasma zinc and copper using inductively-coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Copper and zinc levels and Cu/Zn were analyzed for possible correlation with severity of 19 symptoms. Results Autistic individuals had elevated plasma levels of copper and Cu/Zn and lower, but not significantly lower, plasma Zn compared to neurotypical controls. There was a correlation between Cu/Zn and expressive language, receptive language, focus attention, hyperactivity, fine motor skills, gross motor skills and Tip Toeing. There was a negative correlation between plasma zinc concentration and hyperactivity, and fine motor skills severity. Discussion These results suggest an association between plasma Cu/Zn and severity of symptoms associated with autism.