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Children with severe acute malnutrition have high rates of bone resorption: A cross-sectional comparative study

Sreetama Das1, Rajesh Kumar Meena1, Dheeraj Shah1

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, University College of Medical Sciences and Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi, India, 110095.

Nutrition Research (New York, N.Y.)
|July 27, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Children with severe acute malnutrition (SAM) exhibit increased bone resorption, indicating compromised bone health. This study measured bone turnover markers in SAM children, revealing higher bone resorption rates compared to well-nourished peers.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Nutrition
  • Bone Metabolism
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Severe acute malnutrition (SAM) in children under 5 is a significant global health issue.
  • Subtle changes in bone health can occur in SAM due to adaptive responses.
  • Bone turnover markers can help assess bone formation and resorption rates.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate bone turnover markers, specifically serum osteocalcin and serum tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase-5b (TRAP-5b), in children with SAM.
  • To compare bone turnover markers between children with SAM and those with normal nutritional status.
  • To investigate the relationship between bone turnover markers, calcium, and vitamin D levels in SAM.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional comparative study involving 30 children (6-59 months) with SAM and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy children.
  • Measurement of serum osteocalcin and serum TRAP-5b concentrations.
  • Assessment of hypocalcemia and vitamin D deficiency prevalence.

Main Results:

  • Serum TRAP-5b concentrations were significantly higher in children with SAM (22.6 [15.3] vs. 11.3 [9.6], P=.009), indicating increased bone resorption.
  • Serum osteocalcin levels were comparable between groups (40.6 [17.9] vs. 36.0 [12.5], P=.344).
  • Higher frequencies of hypocalcemia and vitamin D deficiency were observed in children with SAM (P < .05).

Conclusions:

  • Children with SAM demonstrate elevated bone resorption rates compared to normal nutrition status.
  • Compromised bone health is indicated in children suffering from severe acute malnutrition.
  • Further research into interventions for bone health in SAM is warranted.

Keywords:
CalciumOsteocalcinSevere acute malnutritionTartrate resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP 5b)Vitamin D

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