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Selenium, Blood
Quest Diagnostics1 test optionFrom $79.36
Selenium, Blood
Quest DiagnosticsCatalog information reviewed: August 24, 2026 by the Sunridge Medical clinical team.
What this laboratory test evaluates
Micronutrient, Selenium, Blood
Selenium is crucial for our body, acting as a building block for important proteins called selenoproteins. These proteins, including powerful antioxidants like glutathione peroxidase, protect our cells from damage by removing harmful substances produced by our body. Without selenium, our cells could be damaged, leading to problems with blood clotting and cell membrane integrity by affecting substances that control blood clotting.
What patients is this test right for?This test is important for individuals who might be at risk of selenium deficiency or have conditions that could benefit from monitoring selenium levels.
What type of sample is required for this test?2 mL whole blood collected in an EDTA trace metal-free (royal blue-top) tube
Test ResourcesFor more information on the importance of selenium and its role in the body, consult healthcare resources or visit reputable health information websites.
Additional test information
Selenium (SE) is a key component of a number of functional selenoproteins required for normal health. The best known of these are the antioxidant glutathione peroxidase enzymes, which remove hydrogen and damaging lipid and phospholipid hydroperoxides generated in vivo by free radicals and other oxygen-derived species. If not removed, lipid hydroperoxides impair membrane structure and function and cause blood-clotting disturbances by decreasing the production of prostacyclin while increasing the production of thromboxane.
Collection and processing
- Sample type: Whole blood
- Fasting: No
- Estimated laboratory processing: Results should be available in 2 – 5 business days after the sample is collected
How Sunridge uses laboratory information
Sunridge considers the medical question, symptoms, history, medications, prior results, and whether the finding could change care before recommending testing. A laboratory result is not interpreted in isolation and does not establish a diagnosis by itself.
Before requesting this test
Availability, collection requirements, eligibility, and processing estimates can change. Sunridge reviews each request and, when appropriate, creates the order through Fullscript. Follow the current instructions supplied with the approved order.
Related Sunridge care
Learn how Sunridge approaches Complex Multi-System Illness and ask whether this test is appropriate for your clinical question.
Common questions about this laboratory test
- What sample does this test require?
- The listed sample type is Whole blood. Confirm current collection instructions in the approved order.
- Does this test require fasting?
- The current catalog record lists fasting as: No. Follow the instructions supplied with the approved order.
- How long does laboratory processing usually take?
- Results should be available in 2 – 5 business days after the sample is collected. Timing can change after collection or if a laboratory requires additional review.
About this test
Micronutrient, Selenium, Blood
Selenium is crucial for our body, acting as a building block for important proteins called selenoproteins. These proteins, including powerful antioxidants like glutathione peroxidase, protect our cells from damage by removing harmful substances produced by our body. Without selenium, our cells could be damaged, leading to problems with blood clotting and cell membrane integrity by affecting substances that control blood clotting.
What patients is this test right for?This test is important for individuals who might be at risk of selenium deficiency or have conditions that could benefit from monitoring selenium levels.
What type of sample is required for this test?2 mL whole blood collected in an EDTA trace metal-free (royal blue-top) tube
Test ResourcesFor more information on the importance of selenium and its role in the body, consult healthcare resources or visit reputable health information websites.
Additional details
Selenium (SE) is a key component of a number of functional selenoproteins required for normal health. The best known of these are the antioxidant glutathione peroxidase enzymes, which remove hydrogen and damaging lipid and phospholipid hydroperoxides generated in vivo by free radicals and other oxygen-derived species. If not removed, lipid hydroperoxides impair membrane structure and function and cause blood-clotting disturbances by decreasing the production of prostacyclin while increasing the production of thromboxane.
Highlighted health areas
- Metabolic function
- Nutrition
- Metals
Biomarkers and report focus
The exact analytes and report format can change. Confirm the current contents in the Fullscript order before payment.
- Selenium, Blood