Selenium blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Selenium is an essential trace element built into selenoproteins, which act as antioxidants and help convert thyroid hormone into its active form. Dietary sources include Brazil nuts, fish, shellfish, eggs, offal and wholegrains. Intake in the UK is relatively modest because soils are low in selenium.

This test measures selenium in the blood, which mainly reflects intake over recent weeks. It is the measurement most often used to check for deficiency or excess, and it can be paired with a red cell selenium test when a longer-term view is wanted.

The price includes the sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result, and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• You eat a vegan, vegetarian or otherwise restricted diet.
• You have a digestive condition or have had bowel or weight-loss surgery that affects absorption.
• You take selenium supplements, or eat Brazil nuts every day, and want to check you are not having too much.
• You have a thyroid condition and want your selenium status reviewed with a practitioner.
• You are on long-term specialist or intravenous nutrition.

Understanding your result

Your report shows your selenium level with the laboratory reference range. A low level may reflect low intake or reduced absorption. Selenium can also fall during acute illness and inflammation, so a single low result taken while unwell may not reflect your usual status.

A high level usually relates to supplements and, if very high, can cause symptoms such as hair loss, brittle nails, stomach upset and a garlic smell on the breath. Your practitioner will explain what your level means for you, and a value outside the range is a starting point for discussion, not a diagnosis.

Preparing for your test

You will not need to fast. Tell us about any selenium-containing supplements, multivitamins and your usual intake of Brazil nuts, and let us know if you have been unwell recently, as illness can lower selenium temporarily. Should anything more be needed, we will mention it when you book.

For a longer-term view, a red cell selenium test is also available. Because selenium is linked with thyroid hormone, our thyroid blood tests may be helpful, and Nutritional and Digestive Health covers wider nutrition. Compare every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is a selenium blood test in Chiswick?

The Selenium test costs £159. This includes the blood sample at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result, and a GP feedback report on request.

Should I have serum or red cell selenium?

Serum selenium shows your recent status and is the most widely used test. Red cell selenium reflects a longer period. Your practitioner can advise which suits your question.

How much selenium do adults need?

The NHS gives a daily guide of around 75 micrograms for men and 60 micrograms for women, which most people can get from a varied diet.

Can illness affect my selenium result?

Yes. Selenium levels can fall during infection or inflammation, so it is often better to test when you are well.