Vol. 1, Issue 1, Part G (2014)

Background: Diarrheal diseases remain a leading cause of pediatric morbidity and mortality in India. Malnutrition often exacerbates the clinical outcome in children with diarrhea. This study evaluates the clinical spectrum and nutritional status of children admitted with acute diarrheal illnesses.

Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Pediatrics, NIMS University, from January to December 2013. Children aged 1 month to 5 years admitted with acute diarrhea were included. Clinical features, anthropometric data, and laboratory findings were recorded and analyzed.

Results: Out of 350 enrolled children, 62% were males. The most affected age group was 6-24 months. Dehydration was present in 78.2% of cases; 56.4% had some dehydration, and 21.8% had severe dehydration. Malnutrition (moderate to severe) was observed in 48.5% of patients. Persistent diarrhea (>14 days) was seen in 9.1% of cases. Rotavirus was detected in 24.3% of stool samples. The overall mortality was 2%.

Conclusion: Acute diarrhea significantly affects children under 2 years, especially those with poor nutritional status. Interventions targeting early nutrition, sanitation, and rotavirus vaccination are crucial.