ADVERSE EFFECTS OF PHOTOTHERAPY ON SERUM SODIUM AND SERUM POTASSIUM LEVELS

Objective: To evaluate the adverse effects of phototherapy on Serum Sodium and Potassium levels in neonates. Methods: A case–control prospective study was conducted in the Department of Pediatrics, LNCT medical college, Indore, over a period of 13 months. All neonates preterm or term with icterus in phototherapy range formed the study group(s). Serum electrolytes (Serum Sodium and Potassium) were measured on a serial basis. Results: S. sodium decreased after phototherapy in study group (5.51 ± 3.99 mEq/L).The difference was statistically highly significant (P <0.001). S. Potassium increased after phototherapy in study group (0.07 ± 0.13 mEq/L, P >0.8) but statistically insignificant. Conclusions:During Phototherapy,Serum Sodium should be monitored and proper hydration should be maintained.