Dysnatremias in Pediatric Patients with Earthquake Victims of 2023 Türkiye-Syria Earthquake

Background: Dysnatremia is a common electrolyte abnormality in children, but its prevalence and impact in pediatric earthquake victims are not well-established. This study aimed to define the frequency of dysnatremia in pediatric earthquake victims and evaluate its relationship with complications, mortality, and morbidity. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data from 312 pediatric patients admitted to our hospital after the 2023 Türkiye-Syria earthquakes. Patients were categorized based on admission sodium levels: hyponatremic (<135 mmol/L), hypernatremic (>145 mmol/L), and normal (135-145 mmol/L). Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were analyzed. Results: Of the 312 patients, 36.2% were hyponatremic, 17.3% were hypernatremic, and 46.5% had normal sodium levels. Hyponatremic patients had a higher frequency of fasciotomy, crush syndrome, and acute kidney injury (AKI). Hypernatremic patients had longer times under rubble and increased rates of crush syndrome and AKI. Mortality was 5.4%, with no significant difference between dysnatremic and normonatremic patients. Conclusions: Dysnatremia is common in pediatric earthquake victims. Hyponatremia is associated with increased morbidity, including crush syndrome and AKI. Monitoring and management of sodium abnormalities are crucial in the care of pediatric earthquake survivors.