A randomized controlled trial on parenteral nutrition, oxidative stress, and chronic lung diseases in preterm infants

Mohamed R Bassiouny1, Hala Almarsafawy, Hesham Abdel-Hady

  • 1Neonatal Care Unit, Mansoura University Children's Hospital, Mansoura, Egypt.

Insights

Trace elements in total parenteral nutrition (TPN) do not increase peroxides. Protecting TPN from light and adding multivitamins (MVP) significantly reduces peroxides and chronic lung disease in preterm infants.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal nutrition
  • Parenteral nutrition
  • Oxidative stress

Background:

  • Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is crucial for preterm infants but can be a source of oxidative stress.
  • Peroxides in TPN solutions may contribute to adverse clinical outcomes.
  • The role of trace elements (TEs) and light exposure in TPN-induced peroxide generation is not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the impact of trace elements (TEs) in TPN on peroxide levels.
  • To investigate if protecting TPN from light reduces peroxide load.
  • To determine the association between light protection, peroxide levels, and clinical outcomes in preterm infants.

Main Methods:

  • 80 preterm infants were randomized into four TPN groups, with subgroups protected from or exposed to light.
  • Urinary peroxides were measured using the ferrous oxidation of xylenol orange technique before and after TPN initiation.
  • Clinical outcomes including chronic lung disease, mortality, necrotizing enterocolitis, and sepsis were assessed.

Main Results:

  • Trace elements did not influence peroxide production in TPN solutions.
  • Addition of multivitamins (MVP) and exposure to light were significantly associated with increased urinary peroxides.
  • Light exposure was linked to a higher incidence of chronic lung disease (adjusted OR 9.26, P=0.03) but not other morbidities.

Conclusions:

  • Trace elements in TPN do not contribute to peroxide formation.
  • Multivitamins and light exposure are primary sources of peroxides in TPN solutions.
  • Protecting TPN from light is associated with a reduction in chronic lung disease in preterm neonates.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos