Selenium, Serum or Plasma
Also known as: SE S
Use
This test may be useful in the assessment of recent selenium intake. Serum selenium levels can be used in the determination of deficiency or toxicity. Plasma and serum contain 75 percent of the selenium measured in whole blood and reflect recent dietary intake. Selenium deficiency can occur endemically or as a result of sustained TPN or restricted diets, and has been associated with cardiomyopathy and may exacerbate hypothyroidism. Selenium toxicity is relatively rare, but excess intake of selenium can result in symptoms consistent with selenosis, which include gastrointestinal upset, hair loss, white blotchy nails, and mild nerve damage.
Special Instructions
Diet, medication, and nutritional supplements may introduce interfering substances. Patients should be encouraged to discontinue nutritional supplements, vitamins, minerals, and nonessential over-the-counter medications (upon the advice of their physician).
Limitations
Elevated results may be due to contamination from skin or other collection-related issues, including the use of a noncertified metal-free collection/transport tube. If contamination concerns exist due to elevated levels of serum/plasma selenium, confirmation with a second specimen collected in a certified metal-free tube is recommended. The test reflects recent dietary intake rather than long-term status.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5724-0
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
ARUP Trace Element-Free Transport Tube
Collection Instructions
Separate from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection. Transfer to ARUP Trace Element-Free Transport Tube. Do not use utensils (i.e., syringes, needles) during transfer. Pour directly into the transport tube avoiding cellular components.
Patient Preparation
Patients should be encouraged to discontinue nutritional supplements, vitamins, minerals, and nonessential over-the-counter medications (upon the advice of their physician).
Storage Instructions
Room temperature. Also acceptable: Refrigerated or frozen.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens not separated from red cells or clot within 2 hours. Specimens collected or transported in non-specified containers.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Indefinitely |
| Refrigerated | Indefinitely |
| Frozen | Indefinitely |