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Clinical aspects of selenium metabolism
1Medizinische Universitäts-Poliklinik Muenster, FRG.
Biological Trace Element Research
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Selenium deficiency, though rare in humans, plays a secondary role in various diseases. Monitoring selenium status and supplementation can prevent or treat these conditions, especially considering interactions with other elements.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Human Physiology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- While defined selenium deficiency diseases are well-known in animals, analogous human syndromes are rare, occurring only with extreme depletion.
- Selenium deficiency is increasingly recognized for its secondary role in various human diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of selenium status monitoring in clinical practice.
- To emphasize the role of selenium supplementation in preventing and treating associated human diseases.
- To underscore the clinical significance of interactions between selenium and other elements.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on selenium deficiency and human diseases.
- Clinical observations regarding selenium status monitoring and supplementation.
- Experimental data on element interactions, exemplified by cadmium's effect on selenium metabolism in rats.
Main Results:
- Selenium deficiency can contribute to various human health conditions.
- Selenium supplementation can be a therapeutic and preventative measure.
- Interactions between selenium and other elements, like cadmium, significantly impact selenium metabolism.
Conclusions:
- Routine monitoring of selenium status in patients is clinically important.
- Selenium repletion is necessary for patients with depleted body stores.
- Understanding element interactions is crucial for managing selenium's role in human health.