A Point-Prevalence Study of Serum Phosphorus Levels in Burn Patients at Admission in Kirtipur Hospital

Abstract

Introduction: In Nepal, an estimated 55,902 burn injuries occur each year, with approximately 2,100 burn-related deaths annually. With little to no resuscitation many patients bear the risk of metabolic and electrolyte derangements during the acute phase. Studies indicate the nadir of Phosphorus occurs between days 3rd to 5th post burn days. 
Methods: This observational Point-Prevalence study was conducted at a tertiary burn center in Nepal over a 12-months period. Chart review of all burn patients admitted to Burn Intensive Care Unit was done. A predesigned proforma was used to record demographic details, age and gender, and total burn surface area (TBSA). The lab values of Phosphorus, Magnesium and Calcium done at the time of presentation to the emergency Department were recorded.  
Results: In total, 75 participants, 33 were female, 42 were male with mean age of 29.3 ± 26.64 years and Total Body Surface Area Burn was 25.53 ± 14.05%. Phosphorus level averaged 1.14 ± 0.50 mmol/ml - with 29.3% hypophosphatemia (<0.8 mmol/L) and 13.3% hyperphosphatemia (>1.5 mmol/L), revealing moderate elevation variance. Magnesium averaged 0.80 ± 0.20 mmol/ml with 21.3% hypomagnesemia (<0.7 mmol/L), suggesting moderate depletion Calcium value averaged 1.89 ± 0.22 mmol/ml)—15.5% hypocalcemia (<2.1 mmol/L) indicating widespread calcium deficiency at presentation.  
Conclusion: lderly patients with burn are particularly at high risk for hypophosphatemia. Hypocalcemia, and hypomagnesemia are also commonly noted.