Selenium

SELENIUM, whole blood
B-Se ATK 

Selenium is a trace element essential to humans, of utmost importance in the function of the immune system. Insufficient intake weakens the immune system. Selenium is essential for the function of the antioxidant glutathione peroxidase. Lack of selenium may increase the risk for heart diseases and some cancers. 

Indications

Investigating selenium levels in the body. Suspected selenium deficiency. 

Sample 

5 mL of lithium or sodium heparin blood. 

Mix the sample well. The tube must not contain any clots. Take trace element samples last in order to cleanse the sampling needle of possible trace element residues. If this is the only test requisition, first take one extra tube. No fasting is needed. 

No trace element supplements 12 hours before sampling. 

Storage and delivery

Ship at room temperature on sampling day (shipping Mon-Thu). Store frozen over the weekend, ship at room temperature.

Method

ICP-MS

Turnaround time

10 weekdays 

Reference ranges

adults 1.1 – 2.8 µmol/L
under 20 yrs 1.2 – 2.2 µmol/L 

The same sample can be used to measure Cu, K, Mg, Mn, P and Zn. 

Inquiries

martin.tornudd@mineraalilaboratoriomila.fi