[Impact of the multiple births on the postnatal iron indices in premature infants]

Akusherstvo I Ginekologiia
|February 8, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Multiple births significantly impact iron metabolism in premature infants. Twins exhibit higher risks of iron deficiency and overload compared to singletons, highlighting the need for careful monitoring.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatalogy
  • Pediatric Hematology
  • Biochemistry

Context:

  • Premature infants born before 33 weeks gestational age (GW) face unique physiological challenges.
  • Iron metabolism is critical for neurodevelopment and overall health in neonates.
  • Multiple births (twins) present distinct physiological demands compared to singletons.

Purpose:

  • To investigate the impact of multiple births on iron metabolism indices in premature infants.
  • To compare iron status markers between singleton and twin premature infants.
  • To identify specific alterations in iron homeostasis associated with twin gestation in preterm neonates.

Summary:

  • This study analyzed iron metabolism markers (ferritin, transferrin, sTfR, iron, TIBC, transferrin saturation) in 102 premature infants (singletons vs. twins) from birth to term.
  • Twins showed elevated transferrin and soluble transferrin receptors, indicating higher iron demands and potential deficiency.
  • While singletons experienced more infections and transfusions, twins had a higher prevalence of iron overload at term despite initial iron deprivation.

Impact:

  • Multiple births are identified as a significant risk factor for iron homeostasis disturbances in preterm infants.
  • Findings suggest tailored monitoring and potential interventions for iron status in twin premature infants.
  • This research contributes to understanding the specific hematological needs of multiple premature infants.
Abstract

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