Vitamin D Deficiency in Children with Recurrent Respiratory Infections: Clinical and Biochemical Correlation
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52783/jns.v14.3823Keywords:
Vitamin D deficiency, Recurrent respiratory infections, Pediatrics, Immune modulation, 25(OH)D, IndiaAbstract
Background: Recurrent respiratory infections (RRIs) in children are a significant health concern, especially in developing countries. Emerging evidence suggests a potential link between Vitamin D deficiency and increased susceptibility to infections due to its role in modulating immune responses.
Objectives:
- To determine the prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency in children presenting with RRIs.
- To assess the clinical profile of these children.
- To analyze the biochemical correlation between serum Vitamin D levels and the frequency/severity of respiratory infections.
Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted over a period of one year (February 2024 to January 2025) at the Pediatric Department of a tertiary care hospital in Central India. Children aged 6 months to 12 years presenting with RRIs (≥3 episodes in 6 months or ≥4 episodes in a year) were enrolled. Demographic, clinical, and biochemical data including serum 25(OH) Vitamin D levels were collected. A control group of age- and sex-matched children without a history of RRIs was also included for comparison. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as serum 25(OH)D levels <20 ng/mL.
Results: A total of 210 children were enrolled, including 140 in the RRI group and 70 in the control group. Among the RRI group, 88 children (62.9%) were found to have Vitamin D deficiency, compared to 22 children (31.4%) in the control group (p < 0.001). Clinically, Vitamin D deficient children presented with more frequent episodes of upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), prolonged duration of cough and fever, and increased need for antibiotic therapy. A statistically significant inverse correlation was observed between serum Vitamin D levels and the number of respiratory episodes per year (r = -0.45, p < 0.001).
Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent among children with recurrent respiratory infections and shows a significant negative correlation with infection frequency. Routine screening and correction of Vitamin D levels may be considered as part of the management and prevention strategy for RRIs in pediatric populations, especially in regions with high burden like Central India.
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