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- Abstract -

Background. Selenium is a trace element that acts as an important antioxidative and anti-inflammatory agent. It has been shown that serum selenium concentrations in patients with rheumatoid arthritis are low, and therefore anhance the inflammation of the joint soft tissues.

Material and method. In a prospective study, performed during 3 month, one evaluated the therapeutical effects of the daily 200 mcg selenium doses, administered as a nutrient supplement, in a trial of 45 patrients, aged from 45 to 75 years, followed-up ambulatory for rheumatoid arthritis.

Serum selenium levels, acute-phase reagents as well as some parameters concerning the pain syndrome were evaluated comparatively before and after the treatment. Serum selenium levels were determined by atomic absorbtion spectrophotometry.

Results and discussions. The significant clinical effects due to the selenium action consisted: the decrease of joint rest, and the improving of psihycal activity. The favourable evolution was also assessed by the decrease of acute-phase reagents, by reducing the joint inflammatory process.

Conclusions. Selenium pharmacotherapy has certain beneficial effects in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Key words. selenium, pain relief, rheumatoid arthritis, acute-phase reagents, therapeutic efficiency.

 

 

 

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