Causes of Keshan's Disease

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Causes of Keshan's disease

Keshan' disease is thought to be caused by the following:

Selenium deficiency

Keshan's disease is believed to be mainly caused by a deficiency of the mineral selenium.

Keshan's disease occurs in areas where there is a lack of selenium in the soil. Plant foods absorb the selenium from the soil and if there is a deficiency, then the plant food will also not have adequate levels.

Enterovirus infection

While selenium deficiency plays a large role in development of Keshan's disease, it is also thought that due to the seasonal and annual variation in its occurrence, this could mean that bacterial or viral infection may also be involved and studies on the Keshan area have determined that an enterovirus may be responsible, such as coxsackievirus.

Studies show that enteroviruses are mainly responsible for viral myocarditis and possibly also cardiomyopathy, two very serious complications of Keshan's disease, which can both result in heart failure if not promptly treated.

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Last reviewed: 29 January 2009 || Last updated: 29 December 2009

Arrhythmia (glossary)
Arrhythmia (health conditions)
Fever (conditions)
Fever (glossary)
Immune system (glossary)
Selenium (minerals)

NOTE: Mega doses of any type of vitamin, mineral, amino acid or herbal supplement cannot cure illnesses and in fact can be very dangerous and produce toxic side effects and interfere with medicine you are taking. Always ensure you consult your doctor before taking any type of complementary supplements.

Disclaimer: This guide is not intended to be used for diagnostic or prescriptive purposes. For any treatment or diagnosis of illness, please see your doctor.

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