Refeeding Electrolyte Alterations in Severely Malnourished Children

This study aimed to determine the frequancy, risk factors and clinical manifestation of refeeding electrolyte disturbance in severely malnourished children, therefore we can anticipate, prevent and correct these disturbances.Thirty patients (16 males & 14 females) suffering from severe malnutrition were included in our study, the age of all cases ranged from 2 – 28 months, the cases were classified as 21 of 3rd degree marasmus, 5 of kwo and 4 cases of nutritional odema. All cases were subjected to full history taking and complete clinical examinations. For each patient serum phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, calcium, and sodium were determined at 4 occasions. 1st samples was taken in the 1st day of admission, 2nd sample was taken in the 3rd day of admission, 3rd sample was taken in the 6th day of admission, 4th sample was taken in the 9th day of admission. Serum prealbumin level was determined in the 1st day and on the 6th day of admission.