Deficiency of selenium and zinc as a causative factor for idiopathic intractable epilepsy

Summary Purpose The accumulation of free radicals may lead to seizures and increase the risk of their recurrence. Glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase are 2 major enzymes that are involved in antioxidative defense mechanisms. Selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) are important trace elements that participate in the structure of these enzymes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the possible associations between trace elements and idiopathic intractable epilepsy (IIE) by comparing the levels of Se, Zn, and Cu between patients with IIE and healthy children. Methods Our study was designed as a case–control study with 70 IIE patients and 60 healthy children who were matched for age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. The levels of serum Se, Zn, and Cu were measured with an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The results were statistically analyzed with SPSS version 16.0. Key findings We found that the patients with IIE had significantly decreased levels of serum Se and Zn compared to those of the control group ( p Significance We believe that this study presents the first reports of decreased levels of Se and Zn in patients with IIE. These results may provide new insights for delineating the etiological basis of IIE and its potential therapeutic options.