Protein metabolism in preterm infants with particular reference to intrauterine growth restriction
- Correspondence to:
Dr Hendrina A de Boo
Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand; n.deboo{at}auckland.ac.nz
- Accepted 15 December 2006
Abstract
There is growing evidence that neonatal and long-term morbidity in preterm infants, particularly those born before 32 weeks’ gestation, can be modified by attained growth rate in the neonatal period. Guidelines for optimal growth and the nutritional intakes, particular of protein, required to achieve this are not well defined. Due to delays in postnatal feeding and a lack of energy stores developed in the last trimester of pregnancy, preterm infants often suffer early postnatal catabolism until feeding is established. There are indications that infants born with intrauterine growth restriction have perturbations in protein metabolism. Therefore, they may have different protein requirements than appropriate for gestational age infants. This review summarises what is known about protein requirements and metabolism in the fetus and preterm infant, with particular emphasis on the distinct requirements of the growth-restricted infant.
- AGA, appropriate for gestational age
- IUGR, intrauterine growth restriction
- SGA, small for gestational age
Footnotes
-
This work was supported in part by the Health Research Council of New Zealand and the National Research Centre for Growth and Development.
-
Competing interests: None.
