A selenium blood test measures the amount of selenium in the blood. Selenium is an essential trace mineral that plays a critical role in metabolism, thyroid function, and protection against oxidative damage. Here’s an overview of the selenium blood test:
Purpose
- Assess Nutritional Status: To evaluate selenium levels in individuals with signs of selenium deficiency or excess.
- Monitor Health Conditions: To monitor patients with conditions that may affect selenium levels, such as malabsorption disorders, chronic illnesses, or undergoing parenteral nutrition.
- Diagnose Poisoning: To detect selenium toxicity, which can occur due to over-supplementation or industrial exposure.
Symptoms of Selenium Imbalance
- Deficiency: Fatigue, muscle weakness, mental fog, hair loss, weakened immune function, and hypothyroidism.
- Toxicity: Nausea, diarrhea, hair loss, nail changes, irritability, nervous system abnormalities, and garlic-like breath odor.
Test Procedure
- Sample Collection: A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in the arm, using a needle.
- Preparation: No special preparation is generally needed, but it’s important to inform the healthcare provider about any supplements or medications being taken.
- During the Test: The site is cleaned, a tourniquet is applied to make the veins more visible, and blood is collected into a vial.
- After the Test: A bandage is applied to the puncture site. The sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Risks of the Test
- Minor: Pain or discomfort at the needle site, bruising, or slight bleeding.
- Rare: Infection at the puncture site or fainting.
Follow-Up
- Deficiency: Addressing dietary intake through selenium-rich foods (e.g., Brazil nuts, seafood, eggs) or supplements as advised by a healthcare provider.
- Toxicity: Reducing or stopping selenium supplementation and addressing the source of exposure.
Special Considerations
- Diet and Geography: Selenium levels in food can vary significantly based on soil selenium content where the food is grown.
- Pregnancy and Chronic Conditions: Selenium needs can change during pregnancy or with certain chronic conditions, requiring more careful monitoring.
Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential for interpreting test results and determining the appropriate course of action based on individual health needs and medical history.
Results – 4 days from Laboratory receiving sample
