Spectrum of co-morbidities in severe acute malnutrition with unexpected dyselectrolytemia in diarrhea

Background: Co-morbidities are the reason behind high morbidity and mortality in SAM children. There is lack of literature regarding co morbidity pattern in SAM children. Objective: To study the co morbidities in severe acute malnourishment children admitted in NRC. Methods: SAM was diagnosed as per WHO protocol. Total of 299 SAM children were included. Co-morbidities were identified and were investigated further and managed accordingly. Results: 90% SAM children had anaemia.61% had diarrhea and 30% had pneumonia, Vitamin D deficiency features were found in 30% cases. 10% had UTI & 10% Otitis Media. Tuberculosis was diagnosed in 13% of cases. Celiac disease, Hypothyroidism and HIV were not found to be major co morbid conditions. Conclusions: Co-morbidities identification and treatment in SAM children is key step in reducing morbidity and mortality associated with SAM. Keywords: Co-morbidities, NRC, Severe Acute Malnutrition, Hypothyroidism, Celiac disease, Diarrhea, HIV