Selenium, Serum
Use
Selenium is an essential element and a cofactor required for maintaining the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), an enzyme that catalyzes the degradation of organic hydroperoxides. The absence of selenium correlates with the loss of GSH-Px activity and is associated with damage to cell membranes due to the accumulation of free radicals. Selenium deficiency is often related to the use of total parenteral nutrition and can lead to conditions like cardiomyopathy.
Special Instructions
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send the General Request form. High concentrations of gadolinium, iodine, and barium can interfere with the test. A specimen should not be collected for 96 hours after administration of these contrast media.
Limitations
Careful specimen collection is necessary as selenium is quite volatile, which can affect the accuracy of results. In addition, severe selenium deficiency may contribute to cardiomyopathy.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5724-0
- 5724-0
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.8 mL
Minimum Volume
0.2 mL
Container
7-mL Metal-free, screw-capped, polypropylene vial
Collection Instructions
Allow the specimen to clot for 30 minutes; then centrifuge to separate serum from the cellular fraction. Pour serum into a metal-free polypropylene vial without using a pipette. Avoid transferring cellular components.
Patient Preparation
Avoid collecting for 96 hours after gadolinium, iodine, and barium contrast media.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated (preferred), Ambient, or Frozen for 28 days in METAL FREE container
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, lipemia, or icterus are acceptable; no specific rejection criteria given.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 28 days |
| Refrigerated | 28 days |
| Frozen | 28 days |