February 2026, Volume 4, Issue 2

Author

Naveen Kumar D and Gokul D

Abstract

Background: Severe acute malnutrition (SAM) is a major public health challenge associated with high morbidity and mortality. Micronutrient deficiencies, particularly magnesium, zinc, and copper, play a crucial role in clinical deterioration, yet their assessment is often overlooked in routine care. Objectives: To assess serum magnesium and other micronutrient profiles in children with SAM and evaluate their prevalence and distribution in relation to clinical and anthropometric characteristics. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 70 children aged 6 - 59 months admitted with SAM to a tertiary care centre. Detailed clinical evaluation, anthropometric measurements, and laboratory investigations, including serum magnesium, zinc, and copper levels, were performed. Micronutrient deficiencies were classified based on established reference cut-offs. Data were analysed using SPSS 26.0. Results: The majority of children were aged 12 - 23 months (34.3%) and male (55.7%). Severe wasting was evident with a mean MUAC of 11.33 ± 0.50 cm. Mean serum magnesium was 1.78 ± 0.47 mg/dL, zinc 72.79 ± 31.18 µg/dL, and copper 99.99 ± 42.46 µg/dL. Magnesium deficiency (<1.6 mg/dL) was detected in 44.3% of children, zinc deficiency (<70 µg/dL) in 37.1%, and copper deficiency (<80 µg/dL) in 37.1%. Anaemia (mean haemoglobin 9.23 ± 1.99 g/dL) and low serum albumin (3.05 ± 0.59 g/dL) were also common. Conclusion: The present study concludes that children with SAM exhibit a high burden of micronutrient deficiencies, particularly magnesium, zinc, and copper, reflecting significant biochemical compromise. Routine screening and correction of these deficiencies should be prioritized to improve clinical outcomes in SAM.