The immune system in children with malnutrition--a systematic review.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Malnourished children have increased risk of dying, with most deaths caused by infectious diseases. One mechanism behind this may be impaired immune function. However, this immune deficiency of malnutrition has not previously been systematically reviewed.

Objectives

To review the scientific literature about immune function in children with malnutrition.

Methods

A systematic literature search was done in PubMed, and additional articles identified in reference lists and by correspondence with experts in the field. The inclusion criteria were studies investigating immune parameters in children aged 1-60 months, in relation to malnutrition, defined as wasting, underweight, stunting, or oedematous malnutrition.

Results

The literature search yielded 3402 a

SUBMITTER: Rytter MJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4143239 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature