Serum Biochemical Parameter Levels among Under-Five Children with Nutritional Deficiency Anemia Admitted to Madda Walabu University Goba Referral Hospital: A Comparative Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Serum biochemical parameters levels alterations have been one of the medical complications that occur among under-five children with nutritional deficiency anemia (NDA) and these changes may contribute to death if not promptly addressed. These biochemical parameters disturbances occur due to underlying NDA. The aim of this study was to assess the association between alterations in serum biochemical parameters and NDA in under-five children.

 Methods: A facility-based comparative cross sectional study design was conducted on under-five children admitted to Madda Walabu University Goba Referral Hospital (MWUGRH) from January 1, 2023 to November 15, 2024. Serum albumin and creatinine levels were measured using a Vitalab Selectra Clinical Chemistry Analyzer, whereas electrolytes (Na+, K+, and Cl-) were assessed with an automated Humalyte Electrolyte Analyzer. The collected data were entered into SPSS version 26 for analysis, curated and analyzed for descriptive, and inferential statistics.

Results: A total of 64 under-five children were included, comprising 32with NDA and 32 without NDA (100% respondent rate). The mean age was 40.47 ±16.6 months, and 53.1% were female. More than half (54.7%) were from rural areas, and 60.9% of mothers had no formal education. Overall, 62.5% of children were malnourished, with a higher proportion among children with NDA (84.4%) than those without (40.6%). Children with NDA had significantly lower mean serum albumin (P = 0.002) and sodium (P = 0.004), and higher creatinine (P = 0.009), potassium (P = 0.004), and chloride (P = 0.009) levels compared with non-NDA children. Multivariable analysis showed that hypoalbuminemia, elevated creatinine, hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, and hypochloremia were significantly associated with NDA. Malnutrition was a strong predictor of all biochemical abnormalities (AOR: 3.32–5.86, P < 0.05). Rural residence, maternal no-formal education, and poor socioeconomic status were also associated with increased odds of biochemical abnormalities among children with NDA.

Conclusion: This study highlights that major alteration in biochemical parameter levels were associated with pathophysiology of under-five NDA and contributed significantly to its progression. Early recognition and appropriate management should be taken to avoid its adverse effects and improve the treatment outcomes.