Micronutrients deficiency among ulcerative colitis patients

Abstract

Background and Aim: Malnutrition is a significant concern in inflammatory bowel disease with incidence varied from 18% to 62% among ulcerative colitis (UC) patients. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the ulcerative colitis patients for micronutrient status. Patients and Methods: This prospective study was conducted on 56 ulcerative colitis patients in the Endoscopic Unit of Dr. Fida Painless & General Hospital, Peshawar for the duration from April 2022 to April 2023. Newly diagnosed ulcerative patients confirmed by colonoscopy and histopathology were enrolled. All the patients were divided into three different categories based on disease severity: Group-I (mild), Group-II (moderate), and Group-III (severe). Each individual underwent complete physical examination, laboratory investigations, and colonoscopy. Serum was obtained and tested for selenium, iron, copper, and magnesium levels. SPSS version 27 was used for data analysis. Results: Of the total 56 UC patients, there were 21 (37.5%) male and 35 (62.5%) female. The overall mean age was 34 years. Based on histopathological examination, the grading of disease severity were as follows: Group-I (mild) 4 (7.1%), Group-II (moderate) 28 (50%), and Group-III (severe) 24 (42.9%). UC patients group and healthy group had similarity in terms of age and gender.