Selenium supplementation could restore euthyroidism in subclinical hypothyroid patients with autoimmune thyroiditis

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• The thyroid gland has high selenium concentrations, with selenoproteins influencing thyroid hormone metabolism.
• Treatment for subclinical hypothyroidism (TSH < 10 mU/L) is controversial, unlike for TSH > 10 mU/L.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of selenium (Se) supplementation on patients with autoimmune thyroiditis and mild subclinical hypothyroidism (TSH < 10 mU/L).

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 196 patients with autoimmune thyroiditis.
• Participants received either oral selenomethionine (83 mcg/day for 4 months) or a placebo.
• Thyroid hormonal profiles (TSH, fT4) and TPOAb levels were evaluated before and after treatment.

Main Results:

• 192 patients completed the study; cases and controls were comparable at baseline.
• Euthyroidism was restored in 31.3% of the selenium group versus 3.1% in the control group (p < 0.0001).
• Selenium supplementation significantly increased the rate of euthyroid restoration.

Conclusions:

• Selenium supplementation can restore euthyroidism in approximately one-third of subclinical hypothyroidism patients with autoimmune thyroiditis.
• Oral selenomethionine shows promise as a therapeutic option for this patient group.