Effects of Selenium treatment on cardiac function in Chagas heart disease: Results from the STCC randomized Trial

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Chagas disease affects 1.8 million people globally, often leading to chronic chagasic cardiomyopathy (CCC).
• Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, potentially beneficial for cardiovascular health.
• This study represents the first randomized, placebo-controlled trial investigating Se efficacy in CCC patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of selenium (Se) supplementation in patients with chronic chagasic cardiomyopathy (CCC).
• To assess the impact of Se on left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in CCC patients across different disease stages.

Main Methods:

• A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 66 CCC patients (B1 and B2 stages).
• Participants received either 100 mcg/day sodium selenite (Se) or a placebo for one year.
• Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) changes and adverse events were monitored throughout the study.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in mean LVEF was observed between the Se and placebo groups at 6 or 12 months.
• A statistically significant improvement in mean LVEF was noted in the B2 stage subgroup receiving Se compared to placebo.
• Selenium supplementation was found to be safe, with adverse effects distributed similarly between groups.

Conclusions:

• Selenium treatment did not demonstrate overall efficacy in improving cardiac function (LVEF) in CCC patients.
• A potential beneficial effect of Se was observed in a subgroup of patients with advanced B2 stage CCC.
• Further research is warranted to explore optimal Se dosage and its role in different CCC stages and with longer follow-up periods.