Alopecia and autoimmune thyroiditis: the role of selenium and zinc

Ekaterina N. Dudinskaya

For citation:

Abstract

Alopecia is frequently associated with autoimmune thyroid pathology, particularly autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT). Common pathogenetic mechanisms involve immune response dysregulation, fluctuations in thyroid hormone concentrations, and disturbances in trace element metabolism. Selenium serves as a key component of selenoproteins involved in the deiodination of thyroxine and protection of thyrocytes from oxidative stress. Zinc plays a significant role in the biosynthesis of thyroid hormones, cellular proliferation processes, and hair follicle functioning; its deficiency is among the established causes of diffuse alopecia. Although the influence of selenium and zinc on hair restoration in AIT is predominantly indirect, correcting their deficiency may contribute to the improvement of clinical manifestations. Therefore, assessing the significance of selenium and zinc and implementing targeted correction of their levels constitute an important component of the comprehensive management of patients with AIT complicated by alopecia.

Keywords: selenium, zinc, alopecia, autoimmune thyroiditis, oxidative stress.

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For citation:Dudinskaya E.N. Alopecia and autoimmune thyroiditis: the role of selenium and zinc. Clinical review for general practice. 2025; 6 (12): 100–105 (In Russ.). DOI: 10.47407/kr2025.6.12.00p4549

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Clinical review for general practice