Refeeding syndrome and vitamin B1 deficiency in a young man with normal body mass index following starvation in the COVID-19 era.

Abstract

COVID-19 has spread worldwide and significantly influenced economies. Refeeding syndrome (RFS) is a potentially fatal abnormalities of electrolytes and fluid that can occur in malnourished patients undergoing mechanical refeeding. Herein, we report the case of a man in his 20s with a normal body mass index who presented with RFS and vitamin B1 deficiency. Although it was uncommon under normal circumstances, it occurred because of the severe social situations that were prevalent in the COVID-19 era. In this era, physicians should carefully evaluate their patients' nutritional status to identify those at risk for RFS, even in young individuals.