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Prematurity and related biochemical outcomes: study of bone mineralization and renal function parameters in preterm

Sarika Singh Chauhan1, Purnima Dey Sarkar, Bhawna Bhimte

  • 1Department of Biochemistry, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College, Indore, India.

Biochemistry Research International
|October 27, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Preterm infants show significantly lower serum calcium and phosphorus levels, alongside elevated alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and creatinine. These biochemical markers are associated with prematurity, indicating potential health risks in these vulnerable newborns.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Neonatology
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Preterm birth, defined as less than 37 completed weeks of gestation, affects a significant number of newborns globally.
  • Neonatal adaptation involves complex physiological changes, with preterm infants facing unique challenges in maintaining homeostasis.
  • Biochemical markers play a crucial role in assessing the health status and identifying potential complications in preterm neonates.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between serum levels of calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), creatinine, and electrolytes and gestational age in preterm infants.
  • To compare these biochemical parameters between different preterm gestational age groups and a control group of near-term infants.
  • To identify key biochemical indicators linked to prematurity.

Main Methods:

  • Serum samples were collected from 75 preterm infants categorized into three gestational age groups (28-30, 30-32, and 34-36 weeks).
  • Biochemical analyses included measurements of serum calcium, phosphorus, ALP, creatinine, and electrolytes (sodium, potassium).
  • Statistical comparisons were performed between groups to determine significant differences in biochemical parameters.

Main Results:

  • Significantly decreased serum calcium and phosphorus levels were observed in the 28-30 weeks gestational age group compared to controls (34-36 weeks).
  • Significantly increased serum ALP and creatinine levels were noted in the 28-30 weeks group versus controls.
  • Insignificant trends of decreased calcium and phosphorus, and increased ALP were found when comparing the 28-30 weeks group to the 30-32 weeks group.

Conclusions:

  • Elevated serum ALP activity and reduced serum calcium and phosphorus levels are significantly associated with preterm infants.
  • These biochemical alterations highlight potential metabolic disturbances in early preterm neonates.
  • Monitoring these parameters may aid in the clinical management of preterm infants.

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