Abstract:

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) and the level of serum vitamin D in infants aged 1-24 months. Material and Method: The sample in this study included a total of 64 infants consisting of 31 infants aged 1 to 24 months and diagnosed with LRTI at the pediatric policlinics of our hospital and 33 infants of the same age range and diagnosed with neither a chronic disease nor LRTI. The levels of serum 25(OH) vitamin D in patients and cases in control group were measured with ELISA. Results: In the study, it was found that levels of serum 25(OH) vitamin D in patients with LRTI were lower than control group (p<0.001). A significant relationship was found between LRTI and regular use of vitamin D by the mother during pregnancy and by the baby postnatally. A significant relationship was not found between serum 25(OH) vitamin D and the clothing style of mother, breastfeeding, time spent outdoors, sex, or number of instances of LRTI. Discussion: The levels of serum 25(OH) vitamin D in infants aged 1-24 months with LRTI was found to be significantly low compared to healthy infants. Conclusion: There is a need for clinical effectiveness studies with a higher number of cases in order to determine under which level of the vitamin D, which plays a critical role in defense against infections, weakens the defense system.