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Published on: November 20, 2015
[Hypermethioninemia in the preterm newborn. Predisposing factors]
O López-Suárez1, M L Couce Pico, A Pérez-Muñuzuri
1Departamento de Pediatría, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago, Santiago de Compostela, España.
High methionine intake in preterm infants fed special formulas is linked to transient isolated hypermethioninemia. This condition, however, did not correlate with neurodevelopmental outcomes at six months.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Neonatology
- Neuroscience
Context:
- Excess methionine intake can lead to central nervous system disorders in infants.
- Preterm infants are particularly vulnerable to metabolic imbalances.
- Neonatal screening identifies metabolic conditions early.
Purpose:
- To investigate the relationship between methionine intake and hypermethioninemia in preterm infants.
- To assess the impact of isolated hypermethioninemia on neurodevelopment.
- To analyze the duration of elevated methionine levels in relation to formula feeding.
Summary:
- A study of 187 preterm infants found 16 with isolated hypermethioninemia.
- Methionine-enriched formulas were associated with increased hypermethioninemia cases (62.6%).
- A significant correlation was observed between formula duration and methionine level normalization (R 0.791, p=0.000).
Impact:
- Highlights the critical role of amino acid supplementation, specifically methionine, in preterm infant formulas.
- Suggests careful monitoring of methionine levels in infants receiving specialized nutritional support.
- Informs clinical practice regarding formula composition and potential neurological development impacts.
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