Co-morbidities and micronutrient deficiencies in children with severe acute malnutrition

Abstract

Background: To study the co-morbidities and nutritional deficiencies in hospitalized children of severe acute malnutrition (SAM).Methods: One year retrospective chart review of 150 cases of SAM was done in Paediatric unit of a medical college of northern India.Results: The mean age of study group was 17.3 months (6 months to 60 months’ age group). Diarrhoea (34.7%) and respiratory tract infection (31.33%) were the most common co-morbid conditions associated with this study. Tuberculosis was seen in 20% of cases whereas Measles was associated in 6.7% cases. Anaemia and Vitamin A deficiencies were common micronutrient deficiencies. A very high prevalence of intestinal helminthic infestation was present in this study. Ascaris lumbricoides being the most common parasite involved. Polyparasitism was present in 20% of cases.Conclusions: Early identification and management of co-morbidities can improve overall outcome and survival.