Evaluation of oxidant–antioxidant balance and total antioxidant capacity in urinary tract infection in children

Abstract

ObjectiveThe aim was to detect serum levels of oxidative stress (OS) biomarkers [malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC)] in children suffering from urinary tract infection (UTI).BackgroundReactive oxygen species (ROS) are normally produced in low levels during tissue metabolism and are necessary for several biological processes. However, higher levels of ROS might cause damage to cells. Cellular damage by ROS could be prevented by different types of either endogenous or exogenous antioxidant. UTI is the most common bacterial infection in children and a major cause of hospitalization resulting in bad affection of the pediatric kidney.Patients and methodsThis case–control study was conducted on 100 children (75 patients: 25 controls) from 3 to 15 years old. From 100 children, 59 were women while 41 were men. They were selected from the outpatient clinic of nephrology of Menoufia University Hospital and Outpatient Clinic of Shebin El-Kom Fever Hospital from January 2018 to January 2019. Oxidant–antioxidant balance biomarkers (MDA and TAC) were quantified in serum samples and urine culture was performed to identify the causative organism of UTI.ResultsThere was significant increase in serum MDA while a decrease in TAC in UT-infected children. Escherichia coli was the most responsible microorganism for UTI in children.ConclusionUTI in children badly affect their health causing an increase in MDA and a decrease in TAC serum levels resulting in decreasing the protecting effects of antioxidants on the body of children.