Retinol and retinol-binding protein in neonates with bronchopulmonary dysplasia

The incidence of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD) is high in preterm very-low-birth-weight infants, and prematurity is one the main causes of neonatal and infant morbidity and mortality in Mexico. The objective of the study was to evaluate vitamin A status of infants at risk for BPD. Serum retinol and Retinol-Binding-Protein concentrations were measured, after obtaining parents informed consent, 17 infants with birthweights <1500g, who needed Mechanical Mandatory Ventilation for at least 3 days after birth were included all of whom developed BPD. Anthropometric measurements (length, weight, head and arm circumferences) and blood samples (1 mt) were obtained at birth, 4,7,14, 21 and 28 days of life. Data are presented as means +/- standard deviation and quartiles, and were analyzed by One-Way ANOVA. Mean retinol concentrations were significantly lower by day 28 than at birth, while REP remained constant, thus decreasing the Retinol/RBP molar ratio, indicating vitamin A deficiency in these infants. It is necessary to evaluate the effect of Vitamin A supplementation in these infants in order to explore its effect on the incidence of the disease. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Inc.