Selenium and the thyroid.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To provide information on the role of the essential trace element selenium, which enables appropriate thyroid hormone synthesis, secretion, and metabolism, and to discuss supplementation with various selenium compounds, which prevent thyroid diseases such as goiter and exert beneficial effects in thyroid autoimmune diseases.

RECENT FINDINGS

Selenium administration in both autoimmune thyroiditis (M. Hashimoto) and mild Graves' disease improves clinical scores and well-being of patients and reduces autoimmune antibody titres in several prospective, placebo-controlled supplementation studies.

SUMMARY

Adequate nutritional supply of selenium, together with the two other essential trace elements iodine and iron, is required for a healthy thyroid during development and adolescence, as well as in the adult and aging populations.