THE EFFECT OF VITAMIN A STATUS IN CHILDREN TREATED FOR CANCER

Abstract

Chemotherapy for cancer can cause immunocompromise. The authors speculated that children with cancer and low vitamin A plasma levels were more susceptible to cancer treatment-related complications than children who are not vitamin A deficient. A cohort of 49 children with cancer were followed from diagnosis until death or for at least 5 years. Plasma retinol levels were determined at diagnosis. Complications of treatment were recorded. Children with low retinol levels at diagnosis tended to have more chance to develop febrile neutropenia (p =. 052). Children with fever had lower mean vitamin A levels at diagnosis than those who did not suffer febrile episodes. In a childhood population with a high prevalence of vitamin A deficiency, routine vitamin A assessment and supplementation in children with cancer appears indicated.

Keywords:

• chemotherapy
• immunocompromise
• vitamin A status
• retinol levels
• neutropenia