An analysis of Albumin and Vitamin D Deficiency in Patients Treated in Palliative Care Centers

Abstract

Objectives: The main objective of palliative care is to keep symptoms under control and to increase the quality of life. The purpose of this study is to define the serum albumin and vitamin 25-hydroxy D (25 [OH] D) levels in patients who receive palliative care. Material/Method: This study has been carried out in a descriptive-retrospective manner. Demographic data and laboratory results of 41 patients hospitalized in a State Hospital Palliative Care Center were analyzed. Results: A ratio of 48.8% of the participants was female, 51.2% was male and the average age was 74.21 ± 2.21 (Min: 40-Max: 96). A rate of 22% of the patients suffered from cerebrovascular disease, 19.5% from Alzheimer, 9.8% from heart failure, 7.3% from oral intake disorders. The serum albumin levels were found to be low in 80.5% of the patients, the serum calcium levels were normal in 70.7%. A lack of Vitamin D was found in 63.4% of the patients and 19.5% suffered from vitamin D deficiency, while the vitamin D level was found to be normal in only 17.1% of the patients. The average 25 (OH) D level of the patients was found to be 17.1 ± 15.54 ng / mL. Conclusion: Patients who are followed up within the scope of palliative care are at risk of malnutrition, low serum albumin levels and vitamin D deficiency. Therefore the follow-up and treatment of patients is important in this respect.