DEVELOPMENTAL ASPECTS OF FLUID AND ELECTROLYTE METABOLISM AND RENAL-FUNCTION IN NEONATES

Consideration of species differences in neonatal renal function may allow the clinician to individualize fluid and electrolyte diagnostics and therapeutics for specific species. Postparturient renal function maturation differs widely among species and may have important effects on neonatal responses to dehydration or electrolyte depletion as well as handling of fluid replacement formulas and therapeutic drugs. In most species, it is important to recognize the propensity for neonatal water and solute loss as well as the rapidity with which clinical signs of imbalance may become apparent.