The Utility of Serum Prealbumin Concentrations for Short-term Nutritional Assessment in Patients with Acute Diarrhea

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the usefulness of serum prealbumin concentration for the nutritional assessment of acute diarrhea. METHODS: From February 1997 to August 1997, ninety patients with acute diarrhea(age, 4-24 months) were randomly assigned into two groups on the basis of their intakes for 2 days prior to admission liquid diet group(N=56, clear liquid and/or oral electrolyte solutions), and formula and soft diet group(N=34). Serum prealbumin concentrations were measured by rate nephelometric microassay. RESULTS: Serum prealbumin concentration in the liquid diet group with acute diarrhea was 13.1+/-4.5mg/dL which was significantly lower than 15.5+/-5.0mg/dL of the formula and soft diet group (P<0.05) and 17.0+/-4.0mg/dL of the control group(P<0.05). Serum prealbumin concentration was less influenced by dehydration than serum albumin concentration. The duration of diarrhea and admission were not significantly shorter in the liquid diet group than in the formula and soft diet group. CONCLUSION: Serum prealbumin concentrations in patients with acute diarrhea reflected their current nutritional status and was less influenced by dehydration than serum albumin concentrations. Serum prealbumin concentration might be used to monitor short-term nutritional deprivation and the adequacy of dietary supply.