Journal of AdvancedMedical and Dental Sciences Research

Background: Tuberculosis is a major cause of morbidity, disability and death. The present study was conducted to assess electrolyte status in tuberculosis and normal individuals. Materials & Methods: 70 newly diagnosed cases of pulmonary tuberculosis and healthy subjects was included and serum sodium, potassium and calcium levels were estimated using electrolyte analyzer which was based on principle of ion selective electrode. Results: The mean sodium level in group I was 132.6 mmol/L and in group II was 138.2 mmol/L, potassium level was 3.5 mEq/L in group I and 4.0 mEq/L in group II and calcium level was 4.2 mg/dl in group I and 9.0 mg/dl in group II. The difference was significant (P< 0.05). Conclusion: Electrolytes were imbalance in patients with tuberculosis as compared to healthy subjects.