Evaluation of the Association Between Serum Selenium Levels and Sarcopenia and Frailty in Patients Receiving Maintenance Hemodialysis

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant public health issue with an increasing prevalence worldwide. In patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) in particular, various factors-such as chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, nutritional disorders, and micronutrient deficiencies-can negatively affect muscle health and physical function. Selenium, an essential trace element with potent antioxidant properties, has been shown to be present at low levels in these patients and may be associated with muscle strength. Sarcopenia and frailty are critical clinical conditions in HD patients that diminish quality of life and increase the risk of hospitalization and mortality. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between serum selenium levels, sarcopenia, and frailty in patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis, and to investigate whether selenium levels might serve as a potential biomarker for these clinical conditions.