Cross-sectional analysis of trace element status in thyroid disease

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Nutritional Science
• Trace Element Metabolism

Background:

• Thyroid hormone synthesis relies on trace elements like selenium and iodine.
• Micronutrient deficiencies are prevalent globally, affecting thyroid health.
• Trace element status significantly influences thyroid disease risk and treatment outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the trace element status in adult thyroid patients within a European urban setting.
• To investigate the relationship between trace element levels and various thyroid conditions.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional analysis of 323 adult thyroid patients in Berlin, Germany.
• Measurement of serum iodine, selenium, copper, and zinc using ICP-MS/MS and total reflection X-ray analysis.
• Assessment of selenium status biomarkers (selenoprotein P, glutathione peroxidase) and comparison with clinical phenotypes.

Main Results:

• Thyroid patients exhibited lower serum zinc and selenium compared to healthy controls.
• 37.5% of patients were selenium-deficient, with 59% of those with thyroid malignancy showing deficiency.
• No significant correlation found between copper, iodine, selenium, or zinc levels and thyroid hormone levels, except for free thyroxine and the copper/selenium ratio.

Conclusions:

• A significant proportion of German thyroid patients present with selenium deficiency.
• Selenium deficiency poses a risk for disease progression and recovery in thyroid patients.
• Routine testing for selenium deficiency and subsequent dietary or supplemental intervention is advised for thyroid patients.