Selenium Level of Umbilical Cord Blood: Is it related to Respiratory Distress Syndrome?

Introduction: The aim of study was to compare umbilical cord blood selenium levels in respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) and non RDS preterm babies.    Methods: Umbilical cord blood selenium levels of all preterm newborn born during a 6-month period were enrolled in the study. They were divided into two groups: RDS and non RDS. Selenium level was assessed by using electro-thermal atomic absorption spectrometry and serum concentration of selenium was compared between the two groups.   Results: During the study 150 preterm babies were studied. Mean umbilical cord blood selenium levels were 98.5 µg/L. Among 150 preterm babies 27 (18%) had RDS and 82% no RDS. Mean umbilical cord blood selenium level in RDS and non RDS groups were 96.5 and, 96.6 µg/L respectively (P=0.64). There were no significant differences between the two groups with regard to umbilical cord blood selenium levels.   Conclusion: In this study there was no significant relationship between selenium umbilical cord blood level and respiratory distress syndrome in preterm neonates.