The levels of trace elements in sputum as biomarkers for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a rare lung disease that quickly leads to death. This paper addressed the issue of whether the levels of trace elements in sputum samples are suitable biomarkers for IPF disease. The sputum Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn concentrations were measured by sector field inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry in populations sampled in Sardinia Island (Italy) including 31 patients with IPF, 31 patients with other lung-related diseases and 30 age- and gender-matched healthy controls.