Quantum Magnetic Resonance Analyzer (QMRA) As A Method For Assessment of Copper and Zinc Serum Levels in Autistic Children

Introduction: Autism is a long- term developmental disorder demonstrating an association with low serum levels of zinc and high copper. Aim: To determine Zn and Cu levels in ASD children using a new technology Quantum Magnetic Resonance Analysis (QMRA) method compared to a reference method to determine the sensitivity and specificity of the new method. Method: This study is a comparative cross- sectional study. It was carried out in The Children with Special Needs Center, Faculty of Postgraduate Childhood Studies; ASU and a Private Clinic from Jan 2019 to Sep 2021. The study groups included children with ASD (n= 30; M= 19; F= 11; age range= 3- 15) and an equal control group of typically developing children matched in sex and age. Zn and Cu were measured by a QMRA- 998 8th Generation device and the reference direct colorimetric method. Statistical Analysis: Results were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, Chi- square, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and linear regression and a sensitivity and specificity cross- tabulation test to evaluate the QMRA in measuring Zn and Cu levels. Results: Both methods showed lower means for Zn levels in the ASD group than in the control group with a significant correlation on measuring Zn but not Cu. By reference method, but not with QMRA, serum Cu was higher in ASD than in control group. Sensitivity of QMRA was 84% when measuring Zn levels but only 60% for Cu and specificity was 87% for Zn but only 60% for Cu. Conclusion: Non- invasive measurement devices such as QMRA can be used as a screening or adjunct tool for measurement of Zn levels but not Cu. It is recommended to test blood levels of Zn and Cu in all autistic children and give them a Zn supplement if needed.