Selenium Urine Test

This test measures the amount of selenium present in your urine. 

• To diagnose and monitor conditions related to selenium deficiency
• To detect if the element is present in toxic levels in the body

This test may be performed if you have

• a suspected deficiency of selenium,
• symptoms suggesting poor thyroid function,
• a weakened immune system,
• an overdose of selenium, or
• exposure to high levels of selenium through your work.

• A low level of selenium might indicate a lack of appropriate nutrition or absorption, among other factors.
• An elevated level of selenium might indicate over-supplementation or high environmental exposure.

During this test, you will be asked to provide a urine sample that will be examined for levels of selenium present. The collection process is simple and non-invasive, and no special preparation is required on the day of the test.

• Drink plenty of fluids (preferably water) before the test.
• Inform your doctor beforehand if you are taking any supplements that contain selenium and if you have any specific requirements.
• Avoid certain foods or supplements that contain high levels of selenium before the test, if advised.

• Thyroid function test: to check thyroid function
• Complete blood count (CBC): to check the number of red and white cells in the bloodstream
• Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP): to measure different substances in the blood, including electrolytes, glucose, and liver enzymes

Urinary selenium test or urine selenium measurement

Selenium deficiency occurs when there is an inadequate amount of selenium in the body. The symptoms of this condition can range from mild to severe, including fatigue, muscle weakness, and joint pain. Selenium deficiency can cause various diseases, including Keshan disease and Kashin-Beck disease.

Selenium toxicity refers to the condition that arises from consuming an excessive amount of selenium, whether in a short period or over a prolonged duration. The symptoms commonly observed in cases of selenium toxicity include nausea, vomiting, alterations in nail appearance like discoloration, brittleness, and loss, hair loss, fatigue, irritability, and a noticeable breath odor reminiscent of garlic.