Biochemical profile of children with severe acute malnutrition

Abstract

Background: Malnutrition in children is widely prevalent in developing countries including India. More than 33% of the deaths in 0-5 years are associated with malnutrition. Children with severe acute malnutrition (SAM) are in danger of death from hypoglycemia, hypothermia, fluid overload, electrolyte imbalances. Hence, biochemical profile in these children is important for management. Objectives: The aim of this study is to describe the biochemical profile of children with severe acute malnutrition. Methods: This hospital based observational study was conducted on children with Severe Acute Malnutrition. Children were tested for biochemical parameters like complete blood counts with peripheral smear, C-Reactive protein, Blood glucose, renal function tests, serum electrolytes, calcium. Results: Among the study participants, 35 (46.7%) were anemic. CRP was Positive in 37, (49.3%) of the study population, Peripheral Smear showing Microcytic picture was present in 33, (44.0%) of the study population. Hypocalcaemia was present in 15, (20.0%), Hypokalaemia in 21, (28.0%) and Hyponatremia in 3, (4.0%). Elevated Urea was present in 34, (44.0%) and Elevated Creatinine in 30, (40.0%). Random Blood Sugar showed Hypoglycemia among 19, (25.3%). Conclusion: The observations in this study confirm a significant association between severe acute malnutrition and abnormalities in biochemical parameters. Many of these children had abnormal biochemical parameters like anemia, hypocalcemia, hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hypoglycaemia.