Prevalence and risk factor of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency in pediatric patients with cerebral palsy

Abstract

Background:  Cerebral palsy (CP) is a commonly encountered condition in Thailand, impacting various bodily systems and leading to a higher prevalence of nutritional deficiencies compared to the general pediatric population. This includes a deficiency in micronutrients such as vitamin D, which is crucial for muscle and bone health as well as the immune system. Deficiency in vitamin D may increase the rates of mortality and infection.

Objective: This study aims to investigate the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in children under 18 years of age with cerebral palsy.

Methods:  A cross-sectional study was conducted among CP patients aged under 18 years, diagnosed and followed up at a neurology clinic from September 1, 2022, to September 30, 2023. The study focused on determining vitamin D levels and factors contributing to its deficiency.

Results: Out of the 24 participants enrolled in the study, 16 were male (66.7%) and 6 were female (33.3%). A total of 18 patients (75%) were found to have vitamin D deficiency. Prevalence of vitamin D deficiency increase in male sex and patient with stunting status. Significant factors leading to vitamin D deficiency included epilepsy (odds ratio 16.9, 95% CI 1.3-223.1, p value 0.03) and the use of CYP 450 inducers antiepileptic drugs (odds ratio 13.0, 95% CI 1.2-140.7, p value 0.04).

Conclusion: The study found a 75% prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among children with CP. The significant contributing factors identified were epilepsy and the use of CYP450 inducers antiepileptic drugs.