Effect of Selenium on Weight Change of HIV 1 Positive Pre-puberty Treatment Naive Children: Tick Phenomenon

Background: Seleno-proteins, Iodothyronine 5’ dehydronases (DIO) affect the function of thyroid gland. The expression of receptors of DIOs are affected by sex hormones (Oestradiol and Testosterone). The objective of this research therefore was to study differential effect of these hormones in boys and girls (Tick-Phenomenon). Methods: Fifty HIV 1 positive, treatment Naive children, were enrolled for the study. Half 25 were given fixed dose of 50 µgm yeast selenium while the matched 25 were on control. Weight was taken at 0, 3 and 6 months. Results: Children on selenium had weight gain of 2.5Kg at six months. The weight for age Z score increased above -2SDs cut off point at six months among children on selenium, in all age categories {, 3-5 years 1.20±2.45, 6-8years 0.19±0.880, 9-15 years 0.97±1.22}. In the matched Controls there was a decrease in WAZ in all the age categories to below -2SDs at six months {, 3-5 years -2.218±1.46, 6-8 years -2.95.±3.10, 9-15 -2.30±1.240}. There was a significant WAZ difference between controls and selenium group at six months {F (5,12)==5.758, P=0.006}. Female children on selenium initially had a decrease and then sharp increase in WAZ (Tick Phenomenon), compared to the males who had a gradual increase in WAZ. Conclusion: It can be concluded that intake of yeast Selenium led to significant increase in weight for age Z score at six months and that there is gender related differences in weight change between HIV 1 positive female and male children on test and controls, the females showing Tick phenomenon.