Serum levels of vitamins A and D and zinc in children with acute diarrhea: A cross-sectional study

摘要

>Background: Diarrhea is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity during the early life period especially in developing countries. Micronutrients deficiencies have been proposed either as a risk factor or a consequence of diarrhea. Association studies highlight the relation of vitamins and minerals’ deficiencies with acute diarrhea. In this regard we aimed to evaluate the status of vitamins A and D, and zinc serum levels in children with acute diarrhea. >Methods: In this cross sectional study performed in a referral teaching hospital, we measured and compared baseline vitamin A, 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D), and zinc serum levels in 25 children admitted with acute diarrhea and 25 other children who were admitted for undergoing elective surgeries. >Results: 25-(OH)D levels were significantly lower in the diarrhea group (p=0.03). We were unable to demonstrate a significant difference in the levels of vitamin A and zinc between the case and control groups (p= 0.14 and p=0.07, respectively). >Conclusion: We observed lower serum 25(OH)D levels in children with acute diarrhea. Whetherthis finding indicates a premorbid risk factor or simply a consequence of diarrhea needs further studies.Regardless of the cause and effect relationship, supplementation with vitamin D in acute diarrhearemains as a plausible consideration.