Nutrition Deficiencies in Children With Intestinal Failure Receiving Chronic Parenteral Nutrition.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Clinical Nutrition
• Hematology

Background:

• Home parenteral nutrition (PN) is a critical therapy for pediatric intestinal failure (IF).
• Micronutrient deficiencies are a potential complication of long-term PN.
• Understanding prevalence and risk factors is crucial for optimizing care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of vitamin D, zinc, copper, iron, and selenium deficiencies in children with IF on PN.
• To identify risk factors for these deficiencies, including hematologic abnormalities.
• To explore associations between race, BMI, and deficiencies.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of 60 eligible pediatric patients.
• Descriptive statistics and inferential analyses including logistic, univariate, and multivariate regressions.
• Assessment of micronutrient levels and hematologic parameters.

Main Results:

• High prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies (88%) and anemia (90%) in the study cohort.
• Multiple deficiencies (≥3) observed in 59% of patients with complete data.
• Nonwhite race (OR 9.4) and higher BMI z-score (OR 2.2) associated with multiple deficiencies.
• Severe anemia linked to nonwhite race (OR 6.6) and zinc deficiency (OR 11).

Conclusions:

• Micronutrient deficiency and anemia are highly prevalent in children with IF on chronic PN.
• Universal surveillance and supplementation are recommended to improve outcomes.
• Further research into racial disparities impacting nutrition is warranted.