Children with protein energy malnutrition: management and out-come in a tertiary hospital in Nigeria.

Abstract

Background: Protein energy malnutrition (PEM) is a common condition in our environment, and still associated with high morbidity and mortality.
Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the outcome and management of children with PEM in Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH), Kano, Nigeria.
Methods: The records of all malnourished children admitted into the Paediatric unit of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH) were retrieved over five year period (January 2002 – December 2006). Demographic data, predisposing factors, clinical types of PEM, outcome of management and time of discharge or death were also extracted from the case notes.
Results: There were 169 children with PEM. The male to female ratio was 1:3:1. The prevalence rate was 5.4%. Marasmus was the commonest type of PEM (39.1%). Poverty, poor weaning practices and communicable diseases such as measles (26.6%), HIV (22.6%) and tuberculosis (10.7%) were the common associated factors. Ninety eight (58%) of the patients were discharged after full recovery. The case fatality rate was 29%.
Conclusion: The mortality rate of severe PEM is still high. There is the need for close monitoring of all cases throughout admission. It is also advocated that special wards for this group of patients should be carved out in Paediatric units.


Sahel Medical Journal Vol. 10 (3) 2007: pp. 84-88