Immune function (serum IL-4 and IL-5), nutritional status, and clinical outcomes in children with bronchial asthma after vitamin D supplementation.

BACKGROUND

This study explores the combined therapeutic effects of pediatric massage and vitamin D supplementation on the nutritional status, immune function (serum IL-4 and IL-5), and clinical outcomes in children with Bronchial asthma (BA).

METHODS

A total of 60 children diagnosed with BA were randomly assigned to one of two groups: a control group receiving conventional treatment alone and an experimental group receiving conventional treatment alongside pediatric massage and daily vitamin D supplementation. Both groups were monitored over two months for changes in clinical symptoms, immune markers (CD 3+, CD4+, CD4+/CD8 + ratio), nutritional protein levels (albumin, transferrin, prealbumin, and total protein), and recurrence rates.

RESULTS

The experimental group showed significantly faster symptom relief and improved immune function than the control group. This included enhanced immune markers, such as increased CD3+ and CD4+ counts and an improved CD 4+/CD 8+ ratio. Nutritional status also improved, as evidenced by higher levels of albumin, transferrin, prealbumin, and total protein. Additionally, the recurrence rate in the experimental group was notably lower (10%) compared to the control group. The experimental group also exhibited reduced levels of inflammatory cytokines, including IL-4 and IL-5, suggesting a beneficial effect on immune modulation.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of pediatric acupressure and vitamin D supplementation can improve immune function and inflammatory response in children with BA, which is of clinical value.