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Indicators of malnutrition in leukaemic children
M S Kibirige1, P H Morris Jones, R F Stevens
1Department of Oncology, Royal Manchester Children's Hospital.
Archives of Disease in Childhood
|August 1, 1987
Insights
Severe weight loss in children with acute leukemia can be identified early. Low serum albumin levels and a low weight-to-height ratio upon admission are key indicators of significant malnutrition in pediatric cancer patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Clinical Nutrition
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Acute leukemia is a common childhood cancer.
- Nutritional status is critical in pediatric cancer patients.
- Weight loss is a significant concern in acute leukemia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify indicators of severe weight loss in children with acute leukemia.
- To establish early markers for malnutrition in pediatric cancer.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of serum albumin concentration in 24 children with acute leukemia.
- Calculation of weight-to-height ratio upon admission.
- Correlation of these parameters with severe weight loss.
Main Results:
- A serum albumin concentration of 31 g/l or less indicated poor nutritional status.
- A median weight-to-height ratio below 0.95 was associated with severe weight loss.
- These two indicators identified significant malnutrition in pediatric patients.
Conclusions:
- Low serum albumin and weight-to-height ratio are reliable early indicators of severe weight loss in children with acute leukemia.
- These findings can aid in timely nutritional intervention for pediatric cancer patients.
- Monitoring these parameters is crucial for managing acute leukemia in children.
Abstract:
In 24 children with acute leukaemia a low serum albumin concentration (31 g/l or less) and a median weight:height ratio of less than 0.95 on admission were indicators of severe weight loss.