Selenium
SE
Description
"Selenium" test measures the level of selenium in your blood, a trace mineral essential for thyroid function, immune support, and antioxidant defense. Doctors may recommend this test if you’re experiencing fatigue, brittle nails, hair loss, or frequent infections. Low levels can indicate dietary gaps, poor absorption, or chronic illness, while high levels may result from over-supplementation or toxicity. Based on your results, care may include nutritional adjustments or follow-up testing. Monitoring selenium supports long-term metabolic and immune health.
Test Category
Antioxidants, Minerals, Trace Minerals
Procedure
Invasive
Sample Type
Blood – Serum
Units
Micrograms Per Liter | Nanomoles Per Liter
Procedure Category
Blood Draw
Test Group
Mineral Group, Complete Nutrient Deficiency Group
Test Group Description
Complete Nutrient Deficiency Group: This comprehensive group includes an expanded panel of tests covering a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. Mineral Group: By assessing various parameters related to mineral levels and balance, it provides insights into overall mineral status and associated health considerations.
Optimal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: 90.00–120.00 µg/L
SI Unit: 1,147–1,529 nmol/L
Normal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: 100.00–130.00 µg/L
SI Unit: 1,274–1,656 nmol/L
Results That Differ From The Norm (Direct and Indirect Causes)
Increased levels may indicate:
Excessive dietary intake
Exessive suplementation
Occupational exposure (Exposure to selenium in the workplace)
Renal failure (Impaired kidney function)
Decreased levels may indicate:
Celiac disease (Autoimmune disorder affecting the small intestine)
Crohn's disease (Inflammatory bowel disease affecting the digestive tract)
Inadequate dietary intake
Total parenteral nutrition (Receiving nutrition intravenously, which may lack selenium)
Ulcerative colitis (Chronic inflammatory bowel disease affecting the colon)
Key Reasons For Testing
Nutritional Assessment: Evaluates selenium levels to assess nutritional status and guide dietary adjustments.
Identifying Deficiency or Toxicity: Diagnoses selenium imbalances, preventing complications from deficiency or excess.
Monitoring Health Conditions: Tracks selenium's role in conditions like thyroid disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and immune dysfunction.
Health Status Conditions It May Be Used To Assess
Currently, this test is not directly associated with any conditions listed on the Health Status page. However, it may be included as part of a broader set of tests linked to specific health conditions.
Some Prominent Medical Labs That May Offer This Test
Please note that this particular test has not been associated with any of the listed prominent medical labs. We recommend enquiring with your private physician or nearest hospital to determine where this specific test can be performed.
References
Important Note
Any medical procedure yielding results outside the norm may be directly or indirectly linked to the conditions outlined on this page. Various factors, including genetics, medication and supplement usage, recent illnesses, pregnancy, pre-test eating, smoking, and stress, can impact the test's outcome. Additionally, factors like false positives, false negatives, inaccurate analyses, and others can influence results.
Reference ranges, which help healthcare professionals interpret medical tests, may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. They may also differ between laboratories due to variations in instruments and methods used. Optimal ranges are designed for preventive purposes, aiming to identify trends and potential risks early, while normal ranges reflect conventional laboratory values indicating no current disease or pathology. Your healthcare practitioner may have specific reasons for testing that deviate from the usual or may interpret results differently based on individual circumstances. Proper interpretation typically involves considering clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Hence, it is crucial to provide your healthcare professionals with a comprehensive medical history, consult with them for result interpretation, and follow their guidance for potential re-testing or additional diagnostics.
Disclaimer
This content is provided solely for informative and educational purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Regarding the interpretation of their medical test results and/or specific health questions, it is recommended that all readers and viewers consult their physicians or other qualified health professionals. The publisher is not responsible for any adverse health effects that may result from reading or following the information in this educational content. Before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program, all viewers, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physician or health care practitioner.
Please note that while prominent lab names are included in this content, we cannot guarantee that these labs offer all the tests mentioned. For confirmation, individuals should contact the labs directly or consult their medical practitioners. The information provided reflects general knowledge at the time of publication and may not include recent updates or emerging research. Readers should verify details with qualified professionals to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
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