Serum Retinol Concentrations in Hospitalized Severe Protein-energy Malnourished Children

Abstract

Background: Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is a major nutritional problem in many developing countries. Vitamin A status has been reported to be adversely affected in protein-energy malnutrition (PEM). Objective: to assess and compare serum retinol concentrations in hospitalized children with severe PEM and normal ones. Methods: a prospective series of 34 malnourished and 29 normal control children, p > 0.05), maternal schooling (p > 0.05), family income (p > 0.05), breastfeeding practice (p > 0.05) and residence (p > 0.05). However, malnourished children with diarrhoea showed lower serum retinol concentrations (p = 0.021) compared to those without diarrhoea. Conclusion: VAD was prevalent in hospitalized children with severe PEM and also among normal ones although in lesser magnitude. Intervention for prevention and control of deficiency of vitamin A are recommended in settings where diarrhea is endemic and there are unfavorable socio-economical conditions.