Severe vitamin D deficiency in preterm infants: maternal and neonatal clinical features

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Medicine
• Pediatric Nutrition
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Vitamin D is crucial for infant health, particularly bone development and immune function.
• Preterm infants are at increased risk for vitamin D deficiency due to various factors.
• Assessing vitamin D status in this vulnerable population is essential for timely intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence and severity of vitamin D deficiency in preterm infants.
• To investigate the correlation between vitamin D status and gestational age.
• To identify risk factors for vitamin D deficiency in preterm neonates.

Main Methods:

• Serum concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD), calcium, phosphorous, and alkaline phosphatase were measured at birth in 278 preterm infants.
• Maternal and neonatal data, including gestational age and birth weight, were collected.
• Statistical analysis was performed to assess the incidence of deficiency and identify associated factors.

Main Results:

• A high incidence of vitamin D deficiency (91.7%) was observed, with 51.1% of infants having severe deficiency (25-OHD < 10 ng/mL).
• Gestational age did not correlate with 25-OHD concentrations or the incidence of severe deficiency.
• Twin preterm infants had a significantly higher risk of severe vitamin D deficiency (OR, 1.993; P=0.016).
• Severe vitamin D deficiency was less common in the fall compared to winter (P=0.024).

Conclusions:

• The vast majority of preterm infants (98.9%) exhibit vitamin D insufficiency, with half experiencing severe deficiency.
• While younger gestational age was not a direct risk factor, gestational number was associated with severe deficiency.
• Findings highlight the critical need for monitoring and potential supplementation of vitamin D in preterm infants.