Bone disease in preterm infants

Article Abstract:

In recent years, scientific research in bone and cell physiology has contributed to a greater understanding of bone disease. This article reviews the mechanisms of bone metabolism and the changes that must take place in the preterm infant during the transition from the uterus to the outside world to successfully maintain bone formation and growth. Parathormone and calcitonin are hormones that affect vitamin D production and regulate blood levels of mineral substrates like calcium, phosphorous, and magnesium, which are necessary for building strong bones. Also discussed are the progression of bone disease and its successful management in the preterm infant. Bone disease develops when mineral substrates are unavailable. Analysis of calcium and phosphorous in the urine may provide the earliest sign of bone disease. Photon absorptiometry and radiographic densitometry are two methods used to provide information about the total mineral content and state in bones. Preventive procedures are the best approach in handling bone disease. Adequate intake of mineral substrates is achieved with breast milk and preterm formulas, but vitamin D should be given as a supplement to all preterm infants. Mineral supplementation may reduce metabolic bone disease and promote strong bone growth. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Bone diseases, Growth, Bone development

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Are preterm infants at risk for subsequent fractures?

Article Abstract:

The preterm infant may suffer from many developmental ailments, including respiratory insufficiency and possibly bone disorders. While there is an increased risk of bone breakage during the neonatal period, little information is available on the persisting chance of fractures into childhood. A retrospective study compared the medical records of 362 children younger than five years old who were treated for fractures, and of 362 similarly aged children without fractures, with the records of the entire population of 34,837 births at one hospital between 1979 and 1987, to determine if preterm infants are at greater risk for suffering childhood fractures than full-term children. There was no difference in the incidence of prematurity across these groups. Also, for the children treated for fracture, there was no difference in the location of the fracture between two subgroups based on gestational age. Prematurity by itself is not a factor affecting the incidence of fractures, and thus it should not be allowed to explain away fractures that may have been caused by child abuse. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Injuries, Risk factors, Pediatric injuries, Infants (Premature), Premature infants, Fractures (Injuries), Fractures in children

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Aluminium in infant feeding: is it a problem?

Article Abstract:

Renal failure due to early aluminium intake in the milk formulas of term infants has not been firmly established. While studies indicate potential adverse effects in humans through exposure to the metallic element, infant research is inconclusive. There is evidence that aluminium absorption is greater in infants prior to six months of age than after. However, the nature of absorption is not clearly understood.

Research, Causes of, Contamination, Kidney diseases, Infant formulas, Aluminum in the body, Aluminum (Nutrient)

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