Serum selenium levels in alopecia areata

Background Alopecia areata (AA), an immune mediated form of hair loss, occurs in all ethnic groups, ages, and in both sexes. Oxidative stress is one of the possible mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of AA. Selenium (Se) as an antioxidant plays an important role in maintaining immunological competence, an important point in the pathogenesis of AA. Objective The study aimed at measuring serum Se levels in a group of Egyptian AA patients and comparing them with those in healthy volunteers in an attempt to highlight the role of Se in the pathogenesis of the disease. Patients and methods The study included 100 participants; 50 AA patients and 50 healthy volunteers as controls. All patients were subjected to detailed history taking and examination to detect the type and extent of AA (Severity of Alopecia Tool score). Blood samples were taken from all participants to assess serum Se levels using an atomic absorption spectrometer. Results The results revealed a significant decrease in serum Se levels (mg/l) in AA patients (mean± SD, 60.2 ± 8.8) in comparison with controls (mean± SD, 77.4 ±9.6; P= 0.0001). This decrease was more in extensive forms of the disease than in mild forms. Conclusion The study revealed that AA is associated with decreased serum Se levels. This might be caused by increased demand for antioxidants to combat the oxidative stress and inflammation in AA.