Neutron activation analysis of trace elements in hair for oncology purposes

NAA investigations of the trace-elements zinc and copper have been performed to settle the problems of distinction between healthy persons and patients suffering from malignant ailments on the one hand, and among malignant diseases of different origin on the other hand. Mean values and scattering ranges have been ascertained as well as the zinc-copper-quotient and significance checks of the standard group. For all the malignant neoplasms mentioned before the zinc-values show a significant increase (γ=5%). Significant increases of the copper-values could only be proven in cases of carcinomas of the mamma and of the thyroid gland. A significant increase of the zinc-copper-quotient could be noticed in cases of cancer of the rectum and the malignant melanomas. Early diagnoses by means of trace-element d.etermination have been shown in three cases. (author)