All issues > Volume 23(4); 1980

Original Article

J Korean Pediatr Soc. 1980;23(4):280-286. Published online April 15, 1980.

Serum Electrolytes in Dehydrated Children with Acute Diarrhea.

I J Kang, W H Choi, I K Paik, C M Kang

¹Dept of Pediatrics, Presbyterian Medical Center, Keimyung University, School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea.

Abstract

This is the report of the serum electrolyte changes of 351 acute diarrhea patients which were admitted to the Pediatric Department of Presbyterian Hospital, Daegu Korea, during the period of 3 years from August 1975 through July 1978. Following results were obtained. 1) Out of 351 cases, 276 cases(78.9%) were under 2 years of age. 2) 241 cases(68.6%) were males and 110 cases(31.4%) were females. 3) Enteric infections were seen in 134 cases(38.2%) and 217 cases(61.8%) had simple parenteral diarrhea. 4) Seasonal distribution of diarrhea revealed higher incidence in Summer & Autumn(74.5). 5) In serum Na. 183 cases(52.5%). Were isonatremic and 157 cases(44.7%) were hyponatremic. Hypernatremic was seen in only 11 cases(3.1%). 6) In serum K, most of the cases(68.8%) had normal levels and 84 cases(24.3%). Showed hypokalemia. 7) Serum Cl within normal level in 273 cases(78.2%). 8) Acidosis was seen in 148 case (45.3%) with increasing incidence in the younger age group. 9) The dehydration was classified clinically as mild in 112 cases(31.9%), moderate in 186 cases(53.0%) and severs in 53 cases (15.1%). Severely dehydrated cases had higher incidence of hypo hypertonic dehydration.

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