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Collection of Alfalfa Root Exudates to Study the Impact of Di2-ethylhexyl Phthalate on Metabolite Production
Published on: June 2, 2023
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Phthalate Exposures in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Randall Jenkins1, Devlynne Ondusko1, Luke Montrose2
1Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA.
Toxics
|April 30, 2021
Summary
Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) exposure in premature infants is high, primarily from respiratory devices like bubble Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP). Reducing DEHP exposure is possible by modifying or avoiding bubble CPAP and DEHP-containing IV tubing.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal medicine
- Environmental health
- Toxicology
Background:
- Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) is a plasticizer found in medical devices.
- DEHP exposure poses potential toxic risks to premature infants.
- Neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) utilize various devices that may leach DEHP.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify DEHP exposure levels in neonates from different medical devices.
- To identify primary sources of DEHP exposure in a neonatal unit.
- To predict typical DEHP exposure for hospitalized premature infants.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of DEHP content in intravenous (IV) fluids and tubing.
- Measurement of urinary DEHP metabolites to assess infant exposure from respiratory therapy.
- Calculation of daily DEHP exposure based on device usage and infant hospitalization data.
Main Results:
- DEHP-positive IV fluids showed high concentrations, with significant adsorption by IV tubing.
- Bubble Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) devices were a major source of DEHP leaching.
- Infants experienced a mean DEHP exposure of 182,369 mcg/kg over 81.2 days, with 98% originating from respiratory devices, predominantly bubble CPAP (95%).
Conclusions:
- Neonatal DEHP exposure can be significantly reduced.
- Modifying or avoiding bubble CPAP equipment is crucial for lowering DEHP exposure.
- Eliminating IV tubing containing DEHP is recommended to minimize infant exposure.
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