The effect on atopic dermatitis of supplementation with selenium and vitamin E

Reduced concentrations of selenium in whole blood, plasma and white cells and reduced activity of selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase in red cells have been found in atopic dermatitis. To determine the effect of selenium supplementation on this disease, the normal daily diet of 60 adults with atopic dermatitis was supplemented with selenium-enriched yeast for 12 weeks in a randomised double-blind study. Group 1 took 600 micrograms of selenium alone, Group 2 600 micrograms of selenium plus 600 IU of vitamin E and Group 3 a placebo. After 12 weeks, there was a significant increase in the concentration of selenium in whole blood and the activity of selenium dependent glutathione peroxidase in platelets in Groups 1 and 2 and the concentration of vitamin E in plasma in Group 2. There was no significant difference between the three Groups in the severity of the eczema or the concentration of selenium either before or after the 12 weeks of supplementation. The results suggest that although selenium-enriched yeast supplement was absorbed and bioavailable it does not enter the skin or produces a worthwhile improvement in atopic dermatitis.