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Necrotizing enterocolitis in low-birth-weight infants fed an elemental formula
The Journal of Pediatrics
|October 1, 1975
Summary
Newborn infants fed elemental formula had a significantly higher incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis (87.5%) compared to those on standard cow milk formula (25%). This suggests elemental formulas may increase risk in vulnerable infants.
Area of Science:
- Neonatalogy
- Pediatric Nutrition
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Rising incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in newborns coincides with increased oral feeding of premature infants.
- Standard cow milk formula and elemental formula are common feeding options for high-risk neonates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the nutritional efficacy and incidence of NEC between standard cow milk formula and an elemental formula.
- To investigate the potential risk factors for NEC development in very low birth weight infants.
Main Methods:
- A prospective randomized investigation involving 16 infants weighing less than 1,200 gm.
- Infants were assigned to receive either a standard cow milk formula or an elemental formula.
- Clinical status and NEC development were monitored in both groups.
Main Results:
- Seven out of eight (87.5%) infants fed the elemental formula developed NEC.
- Two out of eight (25%) infants fed the standard cow milk formula developed NEC.
- The difference in NEC incidence between the two groups was statistically significant (p < 0.02).
Conclusions:
- Elemental formulas, potentially due to hypertonicity, may be associated with an increased incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis in very low birth weight infants.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms and optimize feeding strategies for high-risk neonates.