Infantile Thiamin Deficiency in Vientiane, Laos
Author Information
Author(s): Khounnorath Sengmanivong, Chamberlain Karen, Taylor Ann M., Soukaloun Douangdao, Mayxay Mayfong, Lee Sue J., Phengdy Bounthom, Luangxay Khonsavanh, Sisouk Kongkham, Soumphonphakdy Bandit, Latsavong Khaysy, Akkhavong Kongsin, White Nicholas J., Newton Paul N.
Primary Institution: Mahosot Hospital, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
Hypothesis
Is clinically unapparent thiamin deficiency common among sick infants in Vientiane, Laos?
Conclusion
Clinically unapparent thiamin deficiency is common among sick infants admitted to hospital in Vientiane, which may contribute to mortality.
Supporting Evidence
- 13.4% of infants had basal ETK<0.59 micromoles/min/gHb, indicating biochemical thiamin deficiency.
- Mortality was higher in infants ≥2 months old with low basal ETK.
- Infants with low basal ETK had a higher frequency of pneumonia discharge diagnosis.
- Breastfeeding was associated with lower mortality rates.
- Fewer maternal years of schooling were linked to higher rates of thiamin deficiency.
Takeaway
Many sick babies in Laos might not show obvious signs of thiamin deficiency, but it can still be dangerous and lead to death.
Methodology
A cohort study of 778 sick infants was conducted, measuring erythrocyte transketolase activity to assess thiamin deficiency.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the observational design and reliance on clinical assessments.
Limitations
The study used two laboratories for ETK determinations, and hemoglobin concentrations were not assayed in one lab.
Participant Demographics
Median age of infants was 5 months, with 79.2% being breastfed.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.045
Confidence Interval
0.99 to 87.5
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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