The Unknown Miracle of the Forgotten Element: "Magnesium and Immunity"

Abstract

This review aims to demonstrate the relation between magnesium and the immune system and their effect on inflammatory process in the critical patient, in addition to many other clinical uses of magnesium. Magnesium is the fourth most commonly found cation in the extracellular space in the human body and the second most common cation in the cell. Magnesium is an extremely important element when considering its role as an enzyme cofactor in many basic reactions, such as nucleic acid, protein synthesis and cell membrane stabilization. The most important features compared to other electrolytes is its effect on the immune system and living immunity. For each group of immunosuppressive or immunocompenent patients in intensive care unit, magnesium deficiency should be supported and in addition to other clinical benefits, the contribution of magnesium to the immune system should be kept in mind.