Effect of relactation on the nutritional and immuno-microbiological status in persistent diarrhea: a multi-stage study

ABSTRACT

Lactation failure is known as one of the most important risk factors associated with the development of persistent diarrhea [PD]. The subjects of this study included 41 infants, of 41 respondent mothers, who are suffering PD. They were 21 females and 20 males with ages ranging from 2 to 12 months [X +/- SD, 6.7 +/- 2.5 mo]. Nutritional and immunomicrobiological assessement was tried at initial diagnosis of PD, and one month after established relactation. A statistically significant improvement of all nutritional parameters, except pallor, hypotonia and length/age, was observed. Abnormal findings detected in stool examination and culture, before relactation, in the form of visible blood, pus cells, RBCs, reducing substances, acidity and pathogenic organisms disappeared significantly, one month after established relactation. A statistically significant rise of serum IgG and absolute lymphocyte count was observed after relactation. Meanwhile, IgM levels and CD[+4] / CD[+8] showed non-significant change. On other hand, IgA levels dropped significantly after relactation. It is concluded that; relactation is possible among the majority of mothers of infants suffering PD and so it is worthtrial in every episode of PD; and relactation should be included in the management strategies of PD, as it is benificial for the nutritional and immunomicrobiological outcome of these infants