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Selenium deficiency and cardiomyopathy in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome
A L Kavanaugh-McHugh1, A Ruff, E Perlman
1Department of Pediatric, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland 21205.
Insights
Selenium deficiency is a common issue in individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, potentially leading to cardiomyopathy. Supplementing selenium improved cardiac function in a child with HIV and cardiomyopathy, highlighting the importance of nutritional support.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Nutritional Science
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Selenium deficiency is prevalent in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.
- Cardiomyopathy is a potential complication in individuals with HIV.
- Nutritional status plays a critical role in the health of immunocompromised patients.
Observation:
- A 5-year-old boy with congenital HIV infection presented with cardiomyopathy.
- Diagnostic evaluation identified selenium deficiency as a reversible cause.
- Cardiac function demonstrated improvement following selenium supplementation.
Findings:
- Selenium deficiency can contribute to the development of cardiomyopathy in pediatric HIV patients.
- Nutritional interventions, specifically selenium supplementation, can positively impact cardiac function.
- Early identification and management of nutritional deficiencies are crucial in managing HIV-associated complications.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of routine nutritional assessment in children with HIV.
- Selenium supplementation should be considered in malnourished HIV-infected patients with cardiac dysfunction.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms of selenium's cardioprotective effects in HIV.
Abstract:
Selenium deficiency is common in patients with human immunodeficiency virus infection and may contribute to the development of cardiomyopathy. A 5-year-old boy with congenital human immunodeficiency virus infection developed cardiomyopathy. Evaluation for reversible causes of cardiomyopathy was notable for the diagnosis of selenium deficiency. Cardiac function improved on selenium supplementation. The role of selenium in cardiac dysfunction and the need for nutritional evaluation and supplementation of malnourished patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome is discussed.