FEASIBILITY STUDY OF MICRONUTRIENT STATUS AND BODY MASS INDEX OF NEWLY
DIAGNOSED PEDIATRIC ONCOLOGY PATIENTS: RESEARCH COMMENTARY
Abstract
We conducted a feasibility study to evaluate micronutrients and body
mass index. Fat soluble vitamins A, D, E and trace elements copper (Cu),
selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) levels were evaluated. Weight, height, body
mass index (BMI) and Z-scores were recorded. Side effects or specific
adverse events were documented. No patients had a Z score for height,
weight, or BMI of <2SD or >2SD. Ninety percent of
patients had one or more micronutrient levels below normal. These
results suggest that micro-nutrient abnormalities are common despite no
obvious evidence of malnutrition. Side effects of chemotherapy may be
exacerbated by micronutrient depletion.