Effects of topical emollient therapy on infants at or less than 27 weeks' gestation

Area of Science:

• Neonatalogy
• Dermatology
• Pediatric Intensive Care

Background:

• Extremely preterm infants (<27 weeks gestational age) are at high risk for complications.
• Maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance is critical for their survival and development.
• The skin barrier is immature in these infants, increasing insensible water loss.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of topical emollient therapy on fluid intake, urine output, and serum electrolytes in neonates <27 weeks gestational age and <1000g birthweight.
• To assess effects on glucose, bilirubin, and other clinical outcomes.
• To determine the safety and efficacy of Aquaphor in this vulnerable population.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of medical records.
• Comparison of 18 infants treated with topical emollient (Aquaphor) versus 36 matched control infants.
• Analysis of fluid intake, urine output, serum electrolytes, glucose, and bilirubin levels.

Main Results:

• Aquaphor-treated infants had lower fluid intake and significantly better urine output in the first two weeks.
• Peak serum potassium and bilirubin levels were lower in the Aquaphor group.
• No significant differences were observed in insulin use, PDA, IVH, ROP, sepsis, or ventilation duration.

Conclusions:

• Topical Aquaphor application from birth is beneficial for fluid and electrolyte balance in extremely preterm infants.
• The therapy aids in managing hydration and reducing hyperkalemia and hyperbilirubinemia.
• Aquaphor represents a potentially valuable intervention for optimizing care in this high-risk neonatal group.