[The nutritional status characteristics and the protein metabolic indices of children with acute leukemia]

The nutritive status features and the main parameters of nitrogen metabolism were investigated in 212 children with acute leukemia at varying stages of the disease. A study was made of the patients' body mass, nitrogen balance, excretion of nitrogenous compounds with urine and feces, total protein and albumin content in the blood, as well as blood content of urea, creatinine, amino nitrogen and uric acid. The results of the study have shown a negative influence of both leukemia and its therapy on the nutritive status of the patients, that was manifested in protein-energy deficiency and in protein assimilation disorders. A relationship has been revealed between infectious complications, preventing the successful treatment, and the nutritive status of the patients. Clarification of these pathogenetic mechanisms of the negative action of the disease itself and antileukemic therapy will help in the realization of the purposeful correction.