Evaluation of serum electrolyte status among newly diagnosed cases of pulmonary tuberculosis: an observational study

Abstract

Introduction: In spite of newer modalities for diagnosis and treatment of TB, unfortunately, millions of people are still suffering and dying from this disease.Electrolyte disturbances have been reported in tuberculosis (TB) infection.Aim: To evaluate the serum electrolyte status among newly diagnosed cases of pulmonary TB. Methods: The present observational cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 60 newly diagnosed cases of pulmonary tuberculosis. This study focused on serum sodium, potassium and calcium levels in the patients under study and was the main outcome of this study. Serum sodium, potassium and calcium analysis was done using electrolyte analyzer.Results: The mean age of the study population came to be 58.24 years and the minimum and maximum age recorded were 21 years and 81 years respectively. Gender distribution showed male predominance with 46 (76.6%) males and 14 (23.3%) females. Mean sodium levels in the study sample came to be 132.45±7.2mmol/L, Mean potassium levels observed were 3.6±0.6 mmol/L and Mean levels of ionised calcium came to be 4.1±0.2mmol/L. Hyponatremia was observed in 30 (50%) cases, hypokalemia was observed in 27 (45%) and hypocalcemia constituted 21 (35%) among the patients diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis.Conclusion:Screening for serum electrolytes in pulmonary tuberculosis is essential.Early diagnosis and prompt management of these abnormalities are critical. Correction of these electrolyte imbalance could improve outcome of patient.