Relationship between protein energy malnutrition and urinary tract infection in children

Abstract

Background Urinary tract infections (UTI) is a common health problem in children. Its occurrence depends on several predis- posing factors and individual immunocompetence. Children with protein energy malnutrition (PEM) have impaired immune function. Thus early detection and prompt treatment of associated infections in children with PEM are very important. Objective To determine the relationship between PEM and the occurrence of UTI in children. Methods This cross sectional study conducted in Dr. Wahidin Sud- irohusodo Hospital and Labuang Baji General Hospital, Makassar between March 1, 2007 and June 30, 2007. The target population included PEM patients aged 2 to 5 years. Well-nourished patients matched for age and sex were selected for control group. Results Out of 220 patients, 25 had UTI consisted of 12 males and 13 females. Eighteen of them had PEM and 7 were well- nourished subjects. There was a statistical significant difference (P=0.019) in the occurrence of UTI between children with PEM and in well- nourished children. The relationship between PEM and UTI as determined by prevalence ratio value (PR) was 2.6 with 95% confidence interval (CI) of 1.1 to 5.9, suggested the risk of getting UTI was 2.6 times higher in children with PEM as compared to normal controls. Conclusions The frequency of UTI in PEM was 16.4%. Chil- dren with PEM have the risk of getting UTI 2.6 times higher as compared to well-nourished children

Keywords

• protein energy malnutrition
• urinary tract infection
• children