Serum butyrylcholinesterase and zinc in breast cancer

Context: Even though, a large number of serological, molecular markers have been proposed for breast cancer screening, most of them lack specificity, sensitivity, prognostic value, and cost effectiveness. Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) and its genes are aberrantly expressed in a variety of human cancers. It has-been linked to tumorigenesis, cell proliferation, and cell differentiation. Zinc (Zn) is a cofactor for superoxide dismutase, an enzyme that protects cellular components against free radical-induced damage and carcinogenesis. Therefore, the aim of present study was to estimate and compare serum BChE and serum Zn levels in healthy controls and biopsy proven breast cancer patients before definitive therapy. Aims: To estimate and compare serum BChE and serum Zn levels in healthy controls and biopsy proven breast cancer patients before definitive therapy. Settings and Design: Serum BChE and Zn were estimated in 46 newly diagnosed (preoperative) female patients with breast cancer and 50 healthy female volunteers. Subjects and Methods: Serum BChE and Zn were estimated by spectrophotometric method. Statistical Analysis Used: Data was expressed as median and inter quartile range. Comparisons between different stages of cancer were done using Kruskal-Wallis test. Results: There was a significant increase in serum BChE and Zn in breast cancer patients compared to controls (P < 0.001). Serum BChE showed a significant increase and Zn was significantly decreased in different stages of breast cancer. Conclusions: Both BChE and Zn are inexpensive and can easily be analyzed and may play a role in the management of breast cancer.