Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
The journal of pediatric academy (Online), cilt.7, sa.1, ss.24-29, 2026 (TRDizin)
Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) remains a significant public health problem in childhood and is frequently accompanied by multiple micronutrient deficiencies and metabolic alterations. This study aimed to simultaneously evaluate micronutrient status and thyroid function in children diagnosed with PEM. A retrospective analysis was conducted of the medical records of children aged 0-17 years who were admitted to Defne State Hospital between December 2023 and May 2025 with a diagnosis of PEM. Demographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements, and laboratory parameters, including hemoglobin, serum iron, ferritin, vitamin B12, vitamin D, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and free T4 were recorded. Nutritional status was assessed using World Health Organization growth standards. A total of 65 children (32 males and 33 females) were included. Mild, moderate, and severe malnutrition were identified in 38.46%, 44.62%, and 16.92% of patients, respectively. Anemia and vitamin D deficiency were the most common abnormalities observed in 23.08% and 18.46% of patients, respectively. In contrast, vitamin B12 deficiency and abnormal thyroid function test results were detected at lower rates (3.08% and 4.62%, respectively). No significant differences were observed between genders in anthropometric measurements or malnutrition severity. The relatively low prevalence of thyroid dysfunction, compared with previous studies, may be attributable to the predominance of mild-to-moderate malnutrition in the study population. These findings suggest that the impact of PEM on micronutrient metabolism and endocrine function varies according to disease severity, and highlight the importance of a comprehensive clinical approach that includes assessment of both micronutrient and hormonal status in children with PEM.