Lever
Lifestyle
- Regular monitoring of selenium levels
- Avoidance of excessive supplementation
- Awareness of environmental exposures
Critical Thresholds
Seek immediate medical attention if selenium levels exceed 1400 microg/L due to risk of acute toxicity.
Critical High1400 microg/L
Blutwerte · Marker
Selen
Selenium · Serum Selenium
Elektrolyte
- Einheit:
- microg/L
- Abbreviation
- Se
Selenium test quantifies the concentration of selenium in the blood, reflecting selenium status and selenoprotein activity.
Reference Ranges
Reference
70–150microg/L
70
90
120
150
1400
LowNormalHigh
Reference
Optimal
Critical
Unit · microg/LReference ranges may vary based on dietary intake and regional soil selenium content.
Overview
Übersicht
Selenium (Se) is a trace element classified as an electrolyte, essential for the biosynthesis of selenoproteins, including glutathione peroxidase, which play critical roles in antioxidant defense, thyroid hormone metabolism, and cellular homeostasis. It is predominantly stored in the thyroid gland, reflecting its importance in thyroid function. Clinically, selenium is vital for thyroid health, with deficiencies linked to diseases such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease. Supplementation has shown potential benefits in these conditions, as well as in certain cancers and liver diseases. Selenium's role in liver health is highlighted by its negative correlation with liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, suggesting its protective effects against chronic liver conditions. For athletes and biohackers, selenium is of interest due to its antioxidant properties, which may enhance recovery and reduce oxidative stress. However, the narrow therapeutic window between deficiency and toxicity necessitates careful monitoring. Confounding factors such as dietary intake, geographical variations in soil selenium content, and supplementation practices can influence selenium levels. Testing should consider these variables to ensure accurate assessment.
Klinische Bedeutung
Elevated selenium levels can indicate potential toxicity, with symptoms ranging from gastrointestinal distress to neurological damage. Reduced selenium levels are associated with increased risk of thyroid dysfunction, weakened immune response, and potential liver disease.
Dynamics
Trend Interpretation
Rising Values
Progressively rising selenium levels suggest potential toxicity; re-test in 4 weeks if levels exceed 150 microg/L.
Falling Values
Falling selenium levels may indicate dietary deficiency or malabsorption; consider dietary assessment.
Re-test Interval
4 weeks if outside optimal range
Etiology
Causes — High & Low
Cause
Elevated Levels
- Excessive supplementation
- High dietary intake
- Environmental exposure
- Selenosis
- Ingestion of selenium-containing compounds
Cause
Low Levels
- Poor dietary intake
- Malabsorption syndromes
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- Chronic illness
- Geographical selenium deficiency
Protocol
How to Optimize
Lever
Nutrition
- Incorporate selenium-rich foods like Brazil nuts
- Consume seafood and organ meats
- Include whole grains and seeds
Lever
Supplementation
- Selenium yeast
- Sodium selenite
Note:
Consult a healthcare provider before starting selenium supplements, especially if taking other medications or supplements.
Testing Guidelines
✓Fasting Not Required
✓Not Time-Sensitive
Testing Frequency
Annually for general health, more frequently if managing thyroid or liver conditions
Interfering Factors
- Recent dietary changes
- Supplementation
- Environmental exposure
Open Research Questions
Current research suggests that the clinical significance of selenium levels in relation to thyroid diseases, liver fibrosis, and esophageal cancer remains debated, particularly regarding optimal reference ranges and confounding factors influencing toxicity versus deficiency. Researchers have not yet established clear dosing guidelines or the specific forms of selenium that may be most beneficial or harmful. Additionally, unanswered clinical questions include the long-term effects of selenium supplementation and its role in cancer prevention across diverse populations.
26 Research Publications
1,241
Total Citations
4
Human/RCT
3.2
Avg. Influence
2025
Latest
Sort
Filter
01Top
#01
Selenium and its supplementation in cardiovascular disease--what do we know?
ReviewInfluence7.0
288
This study reviewed the role of selenium in cardiovascular disease. Researchers found that while selenium is important for various metabolic functions, the evidence regarding its supplementation for cardiovascular disease remains inconclusive.
02Top
#02
Selenium neurotoxicity in humans: bridging laboratory and epidemiologic studies.
ReviewInfluence1.0
182
Researchers explored the neurotoxic effects of selenium, noting that acute overexposure can lead to adverse neurological symptoms. They highlighted a potential link between chronic low-level selenium exposure and increased risk of conditions like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, emphasizing the need for further research.
03Top
#03
Evaluating selenium poisoning.
Nuttall Kern L · Annals of clinical and laboratory science · 2006
ReviewInfluence11.0
177
This study reviewed selenium poisoning in humans from a clinical laboratory perspective. Researchers found that distinguishing between toxic and non-toxic selenium levels is challenging, with acute toxicity linked to levels above 1400 micro g/L. The study highlights the complexity of interpreting selenium concentrations in body fluids.
Key findings
- 01Researchers found that acute selenium toxicity is often linked to very high serum levels, typically above 1400 micro g/L.
- 02They observed that chronic toxicity can occur at lower levels, ranging from 500 to 1400 micro g/L.
- 03The study highlighted that different chemical forms of selenium have varying toxic potentials, complicating the assessment of selenium poisoning.
04
#04
Microbial reduction and resistance to selenium: Mechanisms, applications and prospects.
ReviewInfluence7.0
137
This study focused on microbial reduction and resistance to selenium. Researchers observed that selenium-reducing bacteria play important roles in biogeochemical cycling and bioremediation, highlighting the potential for using functional genes as biomarkers in environmental studies.
05
#05
Serum selenium and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in U.S. adults: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2016.
HumanInfluence2.0
100
Researchers evaluated the relationship between serum selenium levels and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in U.S. adults. They found that higher selenium levels above approximately 130 μg/L were positively associated with increased serum alanine aminotransferase activity and NAFLD prevalence. No significant associations were observed below this selenium level.
06
#06
Selenium and Selenoproteins in Adipose Tissue Physiology and Obesity.
ReviewInfluence4.0
95
This study reviewed the relationship between selenium and obesity. Researchers found inconsistent results regarding selenium's role in adipocyte metabolism and obesity pathogenesis, suggesting that more research is needed to clarify these associations.
07
#07
Selenium and thyroid diseases.
ReviewInfluence1.0
58
This study examined the relationship between selenium and thyroid diseases. Researchers found that selenium deficiency is associated with increased prevalence of thyroid diseases, and selenium treatment may improve conditions like Graves' orbitopathy and Hashimoto's thyroiditis. However, the anticancer effects of selenium in thyroid cancer remain inconclusive.
08
#08
Safety of selenium exposure and limitations of selenoprotein maximization: Molecular and epidemiologic perspectives.
Review
52
This review discussed the safety of selenium exposure and the limitations of maximizing selenoprotein levels. Researchers found that low selenium intake may still pose risks, including potential links to type 2 diabetes, suggesting a need to reassess dietary reference values for selenium.
09
#09
Toxicological effects of selenium nanoparticles in laboratory animals: A review.
AnimalInfluence3.0
37
This review summarized toxicological studies on selenium nanoparticles in laboratory animals, revealing adverse effects such as changes in body mass and liver function. Researchers noted inconsistencies in toxicity levels and called for further investigation into the long-term effects of selenium nanoparticles.
10
#10
Esophagus cancer and essential trace elements.
Review
22
This study reviewed the role of essential trace elements, including selenium, in esophagus cancer. Researchers found that selenium intake may have a protective effect against esophagus cancer, particularly in individuals with low baseline selenium levels, although results are inconsistent.
Clinical Trials (13)
13
Total Trials
1,055
Total Enrolled
Effects of a Legume-rich Diet in the Context of the Planetary Health Diet Compared to a Western-oriented Dietary Pattern in Participants with Increased Cardiometabolic Risk
NCT06700954NOT_YET_RECRUITING
Sponsor
University of Bonn
Enrollment
100
Started
2025
Primary outcome
Pameters of glucose metabolism in blood
Cardiovascular Diseases
The Effects of Yoga on Sensory, Motor, Cognitive Skills, and Perceived Stress in Children With Developmental Coordination Disorder
NCT07547514COMPLETED
Sponsor
Fenerbahce University
Enrollment
40
Started
2024
Primary outcome
The Bruininks-Oseretsky Motor Proficiency Test
Development Coordination DisorderMotor Coordination or Function; Developmental DisorderSensory Integration DisorderPerceived Stres LevelCognitive Ability General
Induction Chemotherapy Sequential Sintilimab Combined With Dual Epigenetic Drugs for ENKTL-HLH
Sponsor
Sun Yat-sen University
Enrollment
37
Started
2021
Primary outcome
Objective response rate (ORR) after end of treatment
Safety and Efficacy
Se-Methyl-Seleno-L-Cysteine or Selenomethionine in Preventing Prostate Cancer in Healthy Participants
Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Enrollment
66
Started
2011
Primary outcome
Clinical toxicity of Se-methyl-seleno-L-cysteine according to the NCI CTCAE version 4.0
No Evidence of DiseaseProstate Carcinoma
Colon Cancer Prevention Using Selenium
Sponsor
University of Illinois at Chicago
Enrollment
50
Started
2010
Primary outcome
Reduction in ACF biomarkers
Prevention of Colorectal Cancer
Influence of Selenium on Prostate Cancer Related Biomarkers
NCT01112449COMPLETED
Sponsor
Milton S. Hershey Medical Center
Enrollment
130
Started
2008
Primary outcome
Biomarkers of oxidative stress
Effect of Selenium on Oxidative Stress in Healthy Men
Capecitabine, Oxaliplatin, Selenomethionine, and Radiation Therapy in Treating Patients Undergoing Surgery For Newly Diagnosed Stage II or III Rectal Adenocarcinoma
Sponsor
Roswell Park Cancer Institute
Enrollment
5
Started
2008
Primary outcome
Complete Pathological Response Rate
Colorectal Cancer
Carboplatin, Paclitaxel, Selenomethionine, and Radiation Therapy in Treating Patients With Stage III Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer That Cannot Be Removed by Surgery
Sponsor
Roswell Park Cancer Institute
Enrollment
16
Started
2006
Primary outcome
Incidence of Grade 3-4 Esophagitis
Lung Cancer
Selenium Supplementation of Patients With Cirrhosis
NCT00212212TERMINATED
Sponsor
Vanderbilt University
Enrollment
99
Started
2006
Primary outcome
Plasma selenium biomarkers
Cirrhosis
Selenium Supplementation of Patients With Cirrhosis
NCT00271245TERMINATED
Sponsor
Vanderbilt University
Enrollment
99
Started
2006
Primary outcome
Plasma selenoprotein P, Plasma GPX-3 activity, Total plasma selenium
Liver Disease
Predicting Dietary Selenium Needs to Achieve Target Blood Selenium Levels
NCT00803699COMPLETED
Sponsor
USDA Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center
Enrollment
262
Started
2005
Primary outcome
Evaluation of effectiveness of consuming oral doses of L-selenomethionine in raising plasma selenium concentrations
Nutritional Requirements
Selenium and Immune Function
NCT00279812COMPLETED
Sponsor
Quadram Institute Bioscience
Enrollment
133
Started
2005
Primary outcome
Cellular and Humoral Immune Response
Healthy
Selenium in Treating Patients Who Are Undergoing Brachytherapy for Stage I or Stage II Prostate Cancer
Sponsor
Roswell Park Cancer Institute
Enrollment
18
Started
2005
Primary outcome
Effects of selenium vs placebo on tissue biomarkers of prostate cancer susceptibility at 1 and 6 months after completion of study treatment
Prostate Cancer
Publication Trend
Research publications about Selen over time
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