The Association between Elevated Serum Copper (Cu) Levels and Its Complications in Cu T380a IntrauterineDevice (IUD) Users; a Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: While it is widely recognised that intrauterine devices (IUDs) do not usually cause copper toxicity, there have been  documented instances. The likelihood of copper poisoning from an IUD is somewhat increased in women with chronic liver illness  because it may impair their body's capacity to metabolise minerals like copper.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the correlation  between the use of copper T380A IUD and levels of copper in blood in Cu IUD users through measuring their blood copper level and to  assess potential Cu toxicity.

Patients and methods: A total of 159 women using copper T380A IUD as a method of contraception were  enrolled and subdivided into 3 equal groups: Group A included women using copper T380A IUD ≥ 1 year, group B included women using  copper T380A IUD less than 1year and group C “non-users” “control group” included women not using copper T380A IUD as a method of  contraception, with the same inclusion and exclusion criteria. All cases were asked about symptoms of Cu toxicity using case report form  and questionnaire as gastric upset, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, change in colour of stool, bloody or black stools, headache,  lightheadedness, fatigue, elevated body temperature or chills, myalgia, palpitations, changes in taste up to anorexia, mood swings,  symptoms of depression or anxiety, irritability, hardly focusing and body system failure. Incidence and prevalence of Cu toxicity  symptoms were evaluated and cutoff point of serum copper level in µg per deciliter and its correlation with Cu toxicity was assessed.  

Results: No differences were noted between study groups regarding serum Cu level 108.46 ± 22.93 vs. 104.13 ± 22.44 vs. 109.15 ± 22.66  µg/dl and symptoms of Cu toxicity except fatigue and tachycardia that were more frequent among control group with no significant  clinical value. Also, no differences were noted between study groups regarding maternal age and BMI.

Conclusion: There was no rise in  blood copper levels among IUD users, regardless of duration of usage. Copper T380A IUD is recommended to be used safely without  danger of Cu toxicity.