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Prematurity-associated nephrocalcinosis and kidney function in early childhood
T Saarela1, P Lanning, M Koivisto
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Oulu, Kajaanintie 52 A, FIN-90220 Oulu, Finland. timo.saarela@oulu.fi
Pediatric Nephrology (Berlin, Germany)
|December 22, 1999
Summary
Neonatal nephrocalcinosis may cause early childhood renal tubular dysfunction in preterm infants, but glomerular function remains unaffected. This study examined kidney function in premature children with and without nephrocalcinosis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Neonatal Medicine
- Renal Physiology
Background:
- Neonatal nephrocalcinosis is a known complication in premature infants.
- Long-term effects on kidney function require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of prematurity-associated nephrocalcinosis on kidney function in early childhood.
- To assess tubular and glomerular function in preterm infants with a history of nephrocalcinosis.
Main Methods:
- Comparative study of 20 premature children with neonatal nephrocalcinosis and 20 matched controls.
- Assessment of distal tubular acidification capacity using the oral acetazolamide test.
- Measurement of urinary calcium, beta(2)-microglobulin, and fractional excretion of electrolytes; estimation of creatinine clearance.
Main Results:
- Abnormal distal tubular acidification capacity was observed in one child with nephrocalcinosis.
- Higher urinary calcium and beta(2)-microglobulin excretion in the nephrocalcinosis group.
- No significant differences in fractional electrolyte excretion, phosphate reabsorption, or estimated creatinine clearance between groups.
Conclusions:
- Neonatal nephrocalcinosis is associated with subtle renal tubular dysfunction in early childhood among preterm infants.
- Glomerular function appears to be preserved despite the presence of nephrocalcinosis.
- Persistent nephrocalcinosis may be linked to chronic lung disease and respiratory acidosis.