Risk factors for carnitine deficiency in critically ill adults: A descriptive cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Critical Care Medicine
• Nutritional Science
• Renal Medicine

Background:

• Carnitine deficiency is a potential complication of critical illness, linked to adverse clinical outcomes.
• Identifying prevalence and predictors of carnitine deficiency is crucial for managing critically ill patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of carnitine deficiency in critically ill adults.
• To identify predictors associated with carnitine deficiency in this population.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive cross-sectional study involving 144 critically ill adults in intensive care units.
• Serum carnitine levels were measured, with deficiency defined as <36 µmol/L.
• Logistic regression models were used to analyze predictors of carnitine deficiency.

Main Results:

• The prevalence of carnitine deficiency was 41.7% in the study sample.
• A lower body mass index (OR 0.95) and continuous renal replacement therapy (OR 2.43) were significant predictors.
• Female sex and chronic kidney disease showed significance in univariable analysis.

Conclusions:

• Carnitine deficiency is highly prevalent in critically ill adults.
• Continuous renal replacement therapy and lower body mass index are key predictors.
• Further research into female sex and chronic kidney disease as predictors is warranted.