Selenium Status in Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation

Abstract

Background: Selenium deficiency is established in a number of socially important diseases. Data about selenium status in paroxysmal a trial fibrillation (PAF) are lacking. Aim: To study the selenium status in patients with PAF by measuring serum selenium levels during the arrhythmia and after the conversion to sinus rhythm. Methods: Selenium levels were measured in 33 patients (17 male, 16 female; mean age 60.03±1.93) and 33 controls (17 male, 16 female; mean age 59.27±1.72).In patients selenium was examinedupon hospitalization (baseline), on 24 th hour and on 28 th day after sinus rhythm restoration.In controls it was determined once. Selenium was quantified by atomic absorption spectrometry. Results: Mean AF duration up to hospitalization was 8.64±1.03 hours. Baseline selenium values in patients were lower than in controls (0.898±0.025 vs 0.972±0.025 µmol/L, p=0.04). On 24 th hour and 28 th day no significant difference was established (0.938±0.026 vs 0.972±0.025 µmol/L, p=0.35; 0.952±0.023 vs 0.972±0.025 µmol/L, p=0.55, respectively). Conclusion: Selenium deficiency is observed in the early hours of PAF that restores quickly after cardio version. This specific dynamics suggests a close relationship between selenium levels and PAF. Further studies are necessary to position selenium deficiency in the complex system of path physiological mechanisms of PAF manifestation and recurrences.