To measure the amount of selenium in the blood in order to identify/diagnose deficiency/toxicity or to monitor the response to supplementation
Selenium
When you have symptoms that may suggest selenium deficiency or toxicity. Following guidelines for the screening of malnutrition or if at risk of malnutrition.
A blood sample taken from a vein in your arm.
None
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How is it used?
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When is it requested?
When a person has suspected selenium deficiency or toxicity. In particular selenium is measured in individuals receiving supplements, especially those who are receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN) which is supplemented via the non-oral route.
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What does the test result mean?
Serum/plasma selenium concentrations can decrease during an acute illness or trauma. This does not necessarily infer selenium deficiency but may be a response to a redistribution of selenium (into tissues). Whole blood selenium measurements are not effected by acute illness and can be a more reliable marker. Serum/plasma selenium concentrations correspond to recent selenium intake whereas the measurement of whole blood selenium correlates with longer-term (roughly 2 months) selenium status.
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Is there anything else I should know?
Low selenium intake and deficiency has been associated with increased risk of cancer and cardiomyopathy. Supplementation may improve brain function in particular it is thought to improve mood, depression, anxiety and confusion.
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Should I take selenium supplements?
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What is the difference between plasma selenium and red cell selenium?