The Impact of Vitamin D Deficiency on the Severity of Pneumonia in Pediatric Patients: A Comprehensive Study

Abstract

Background: Vitamin D is a crucial nutrient known for its role in immune system regulation and bone health. Recent studies have suggested that vitamin D deficiency may play a significant role in the severity of various respiratory infections, including pneumonia, especially in pediatric populations. This study aims to investigate the association between vitamin D deficiency and the severity of pneumonia in pediatric patients.
Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study involving pediatric patients aged 1 to 12 years admitted in Bhagwan Mahavir Institute of Medical sciences, Pawapuri, Nalanda with a diagnosis of pneumonia over 1 year between October, 2021 and September, 2022. Serum vitamin D levels were measured upon admission, and patients were categorized into two groups: vitamin D deficient (<20 ng/mL) and vitamin D sufficient (≥20 ng/mL). Clinical, radiological, and laboratory data were collected from medical records. The severity of pneumonia was assessed using established clinical criteria, including respiratory distress, need for oxygen supplementation, and length of hospital stay.
Results: A total of 100 pediatric patients were included in the study. Among them, 50 were categorized as vitamin D deficient, while the remaining 50 were vitamin D sufficient. The mean serum vitamin D level in the deficient group was 15.2 ng/mL, and in the sufficient group, it was 25.6 ng/mL. The vitamin D deficient group had a significantly higher rate of
severe pneumonia (34% vs. 24% in the sufficient group, p < 0.05) and a longer average hospital stay (7.5 days vs. 5.2 days, p < 0.05). Additionally, vitamin D deficient patients were more likely to require oxygen supplementation (odds ratio 2.69, 95% confidence interval 1.34-4.48).
Conclusion: This study provides evidence that vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased severity of pneumonia in pediatric patients. Low serum vitamin D levels were correlated with a higher incidence of severe pneumonia, prolonged hospitalization, and the need for oxygen supplementation. Our findings highlight the potential importance of vitamin D supplementation in pediatric populations to reduce the severity of pneumonia.