What is the recommended intake of selenium for term infants receiving long-term total parenteral nutrition?

• A. < 1 mcg/kg/day
• B. 2 mcg/kg/day
• C. 3-4 mcg/kg/day
• D. 5-6 mcg/kg/day

Answer: (B)

Selenium is an essential trace element required for antioxidant defense and thyroid hormone metabolism; in term infants on long‑term parenteral nutrition, providing an adequate amount helps prevent deficiency-related issues such as impaired immune function and cardiomyopathy, while avoiding potential toxicity from excessive dosing. The recommended intake for term infants in this situation is 2 mcg/kg/day because this dose supplies enough selenium to support enzymes like glutathione peroxidase without pushing the intake into ranges associated with toxicity. Lower amounts risk deficiency; higher amounts (for example, 3–4 or 5–6 mcg/kg/day) are not typically needed for term infants and increase the risk of adverse effects.