Association Between Vitamin D Deficiency and Sepsis in Term Neonates: A Case-Control Study

Background Neonatal sepsis remains a major global health challenge, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality in term neonates. Despite advancements in neonatal care, the early identification and prevention of sepsis continue to pose challenges. Emerging research suggests that vitamin D, traditionally recognized for its role in bone health, also plays a crucial role in immune regulation. Objectives To evaluate and compare serum vitamin D levels in term neonates with sepsis and without sepsis. Methods The study included 60-term neonates, with 30 neonates diagnosed with sepsis as cases and 30 healthy-term neonates as controls. Detailed history and clinical examination were performed for all subjects. Sepsis was diagnosed based on clinical and laboratory criteria. Serum vitamin D levels were assessed using the chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) technique. Results The mean serum vitamin D levels in the sepsis group were significantly lower (16.0 ng/mL ± 10.5) compared to the control group (29.07 ng/mL ± 8.4) with a p-value <0.01. There was no significant difference in gender distribution (p=0.79), socioeconomic status (p=0.752), or maternal age (p=0.349) between the groups. Significant differences were found in the mode of delivery (p=0.037), presence of meconium-stained liquor (p=0.001), intrapartum antibiotic administration (p=0.0006), and resuscitation requirements (p=0.0004). APGAR scores at one minute were significantly lower in the sepsis group (p=0.001). Clinical features among sepsis cases included poor activity (40%), tachypnoea (46.6%), tachycardia (43.3%), and hyperthermia (40%). Conclusion A strong association between vitamin D deficiency and the severity of sepsis was observed, with deficient neonates showing higher rates of severe, early-onset sepsis.