Keshan Disease

Keshan disease is an endemic cardiomyopathy associated with selenium deficiency in low-selenium regions (historically northeast/southwest China). It primarily affects children and women of childbearing age. Forms: acute (acute heart failure/cardiogenic shock), subacute, chronic (dilated cardiomyopathy with heart failure), and latent. Clinical: cardiac enlargement, heart failure, arrhythmias, ECG ST-T changes. Treatment: sodium-selenite supplementation plus standard heart-failure therapy.

Common Symptoms

Cardiac enlargement; heart failure; edema; arrhythmia; acute dyspnea/shock; ECG changes; growth retardation in children

Causes and Pathogenesis

Selenium deficiency (with possible viral co-factor) causes oxidative myocardial injury and dilated cardiomyopathy in endemic low-selenium soil regions.

Treatment

Sodium-selenite supplementation; ACE inhibitor/diuretic/digoxin for heart failure; treat arrhythmia; rest and nutrition

Preventive Measures

Salt/soil selenium supplementation in endemic areas; dietary selenium; public-health prevention programs.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Cardiology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.