Evaluation of the Impact of Enteral Nutrition Support on Anthropometric Measurements and Micronutrient Levels in Malnourished Children.

Abstract

Background: Malnutrition is a critical clinical condition that requires early intervention due to its potential for causing preventable fatalities and complications. This study aims to assess the impact of outpatient enteral nutrition support (ENS) as a therapeutic intervention on anthropometric measurements, intolerance, and micronutrient values in malnourished children.

Methods: This observational study included 344 patients in ages 1 to 18 treated with standard enteral nutrition (1.5 kcal/mL energy with fiber). Patient data recorded at admission, in 3 and 6 months, including weight, height, body mass index (BMI), intolerance symptoms, and micronutrient levels. Data were also compared by age groups (1-2, 3-5, 6-12, and 13-18 years of age).

Results: Malnutrition was prevalent in the 1- to 5-year age group (63.6%). Age-based analysis showed significant height and BMI z-score improvement in all age groups (P = .009 and P < .001, for all age groups, respectively), except the 13- to 18-year age group (P = .102 and P = .091, respectively). Micronutrient values remained within healthy ranges with minimal fluctuations. The ENS was well tolerated by 62.5% of patients, and the most common intolerance symptoms were constipation (15.4%), vomiting (8.1%), and nausea (7.3%).

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that outpatient ENS therapy for 6 months significantly improved anthropometric measurements in malnourished children and was well tolerated. The 1 to 2 age group exhibited the most substantial response to treatment, whereas the 1 to 5 age group required at least 6 months of nutritional therapy to prevent stunting. However, the effect of ENS therapy on height and BMI z-scores in the 13 to 18 age group appeared insufficient after 3 months.