Selenium deficiency

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Selenium deficiency
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Fatigue, muscle weakness, cardiomyopathy, hypothyroidism, impaired immune function
Complications	Keshan disease, Kashin-Beck disease, infertility
Onset	Varies
Duration	Chronic if untreated
Types	N/A
Causes	Inadequate dietary intake, malabsorption, total parenteral nutrition without selenium
Risks	Poor soil selenium content, vegan diet, gastrointestinal disorders
Diagnosis	Blood test for selenium levels
Differential diagnosis	Hypothyroidism, cardiomyopathy, nutritional deficiencies
Prevention	Adequate dietary intake of selenium
Treatment	Selenium supplementation, dietary changes
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Good with treatment
Frequency	Rare in developed countries
Deaths	N/A

Selenium deficiency is a condition characterized by a lack of the essential mineral selenium in the diet. Selenium is necessary for the proper functioning of the body and is involved in various metabolic processes. Deficiency can lead to a variety of health problems, including Keshan disease, Kashin-Beck disease, and myxedematous endemic cretinism.

Causes

Selenium deficiency can be caused by a diet low in selenium-rich foods, such as Brazil nuts, seafood, and organ meats. It can also occur in individuals with certain digestive disorders, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, which can prevent the body from properly absorbing selenium.

Symptoms

Symptoms of selenium deficiency can vary, but may include fatigue, muscle weakness, hair loss, and immune system dysfunction. In severe cases, it can lead to heart disease and other serious health problems.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of selenium deficiency is typically made through a blood test that measures the level of selenium in the body. Other tests may be used to assess the overall nutritional status of the individual and to identify any underlying conditions that may be contributing to the deficiency.

Treatment

Treatment for selenium deficiency typically involves increasing the intake of selenium-rich foods or taking selenium supplements. In some cases, treatment may also involve addressing any underlying conditions that are contributing to the deficiency.

Prevention

Prevention of selenium deficiency involves consuming a balanced diet that includes selenium-rich foods. Regular nutritional assessments can also help to identify any potential deficiencies before they become serious.

See also

• Selenium
• Keshan disease
• Kashin-Beck disease
• Myxedematous endemic cretinism
• Nutritional deficiency

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