Alterations in Serum Electrolyte Levels Among Enteric Fever Patients A Study at Max Super Specialty Hospital, Saket, New Delhi

Electrolyte disturbances are common yet under recognised complications in patients with enteric fever and can lead to adverse clinical outcomes if not promptly managed. Enteric fever, caused by Salmonella enterica serovars Typhi and Paratyphi, remains a major public health challenge in developing countries like India. Despite its prevalence, limited research has focused on electrolyte imbalance patterns in affected patients. This study evaluated alterations in serum electrolyte levels specifically sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate among adult enteric fever patients admitted to a tertiary care center in New Delhi. A hospitalbased cross-sectional analysis was conducted at Max Super Specialty Hospital, Saket, including 128 adult patients (≥ 18 years 59 males, 69 females). Serum electrolytes were measured on admission and categorised as low, normal, or high. Descriptive statistics, including mean and standard deviation, were used to evaluate the distribution of electrolyte values, which were as follows bicarbonate 21.37 ± 3.93 mmol/L, chloride 100.96 ± 4.18 mmol/L, potassium 4.21 ± 0.61 mmol/L, and sodium 133.70 ± 4.00 mmol/L. A significant proportion of patients exhibited hyponatraemia (58.6%) and low bicarbonate levels (57.8%) suggesting trends toward fluid-electrolyte imbalance and metabolic acidosis. In contrast, potassium and chloride levels remained largely within normal limits, with over 95% of patients maintaining normal potassium levels. The study highlights that mild to moderate hyponatraemia and metabolic acidosis (as indicated by low bicarbonate) are frequent findings among patients with enteric fever. Regular monitoring of electrolyte profiles should be integrated into the diagnostic and therapeutic workflow to mitigate potential complications and improve patient outcomes.