The Role of Selenium Deficiency In Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Abstract

Background: It has been speculated that trace elements may play a role in the pathogenesis of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). In the present study, we aimed to assess serum concentrations of selenium (Se) in pediatric patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (IDC) and to evaluate the correlation between serum Se concentrations and echocardiographic parameters. Methods: This study included 16 patients with IDC and 16 healthy controls. Serum level of selenium was measured by ELIZA method. Echocardiographic parameters including ejection fraction and fractional shortening were measured in all patients with IDC in order to evaluate its correlation with serum Se concentrations. Results: Serum concentration of Se in IDC patients was significantly lower than in healthy controls (p<0.05). Relationships of the serum Se levels with echocardiographic parameters (FS) and few clinical parameters were statistically significant. Conclusions: The present study confirmed that IDC is associated with decreased serum Se concentrations. This change in Se may play an important role in the pathogenesis of myocardial damage in IDC.