[Relation between selenium plasma levels and different prostatic pathologies].

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Oncology
• Urology

Background:

• Emerging evidence suggests an inverse correlation between serum selenium (Se) levels and advanced prostate cancer (PCa).
• Prostate pathologies, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer, may be associated with altered selenium status.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and compare plasma selenium concentrations in men diagnosed with various prostatic conditions.
• To assess the relationship between selenium levels and the severity of prostate cancer, as indicated by Gleason Score.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional, descriptive, and comparative study involving 64 men aged 50-80 years (2007-2009).
• Participants underwent digital rectal examination, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, ultrasound, and transrectal prostate biopsy.
• Selenium levels were indirectly measured via serum Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx) activity; statistical analysis employed ANOVA.

Main Results:

• Serum GPx levels were significantly lower in patients with BPH (31.6% decrease) and prostate cancer (63.6% decrease) compared to controls (p<0.0001).
• Prostate cancer patients exhibited the most pronounced reduction in selenium levels.
• No significant correlation was found between selenium levels and the Gleason Score in prostate cancer patients.

Conclusions:

• Serum selenium concentrations are diminished in individuals with prostate pathologies.
• The reduction in selenium is more pronounced in prostate cancer patients, irrespective of their Gleason Score.
• These findings support the potential role of selenium in prostate health and disease.