Publication:

Effect of PEM on thyroid status, serum total protein and A/G ratio in pre-school going children

Objective The objective of the study was to evaluate and compare serum total protein, serum albumin and thyroid hormones in children with Protein Energy Malnutrition (PEM) and in healthy controls.

Methods Present study was a cross sectional hospital based case control study, total 75 children of age group 1-5 years were included in this study. Triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) was estimated by electro-chemiluminescence immunoassay method, serum total protein by biuret method, albumin by BCG method and plasma hemoglobin by CMG method.

Result In malnourished children, there is significant decrease in serum total protein (4.76 gm %), albumin (2.24 gm %) and Hb (10.57 gm %) as compared to normal healthy children. Serum T3 (0.51 ng/ml), and T4 (3.93 µg/ml) levels were significantly decreased and non-significant changes in TSH (4.26 µUI/ml) levels in children with PEM was observed as compared to healthy controls.

Conclusion The reduction in protein is due to decreased intake of proteins and reduced biosynthesis. The decreased in T3 and T4 levels in malnourished children is probably due to a decrease in circulating plasma proteins.