Association between vitamin D levels and urinary tract infections.

BACKGROUND

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most prevalent infectious conditions, particularly in children. Vitamin D deficiency has been implicated in various infections, including UTIs. This study aimed to evaluate the association between serum vitamin D levels and UTIs in children at Amir Kola Children's Hospital.

METHODS

This case-control study was conducted on 120 children, aged 2-18 years, diagnosed with UTIs and referred to Amir Kola Children's Hospital, Babol, Iran. Participants were divided into two groups: 60 UTI cases and 60 healthy controls. Peripheral blood samples were collected for vitamin D analysis, measured via ELISA assay. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS Version 26.

RESULTS

The mean serum vitamin D level was 17.70±8.35 ng/mL in the case group and 37.91±12.18 ng/mL in the control group, revealing a significant reduction in vitamin D levels among UTI patients (P<0.001). Additionally, pyelonephritis was associated with severe vitamin D deficiency (P=0.02). Female children aged 3-5 years exhibited a higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, although age and sex did not significantly influence vitamin D levels overall. Vitamin D status was not correlated with hospitalization duration.

CONCLUSION

Given its immunoprotective role, vitamin D screening and supplementation may serve as a preventive strategy against UTIs and contribute to improved clinical outcomes in affected children.