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Published on: November 20, 2015
A case report of osteopenia of prematurity
Vahideh Hosseinzadeh1, Elias Mazrooei Rad2, Aida Alirezaee3
1Pediatric resident, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
Insights
Premature osteopenia in neonates can be managed effectively with calcium and phosphorus supplementation. Early screening and treatment are crucial for preventing disease progression in high-risk infants.
Area of Science:
- Neonatology
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Premature neonates are at increased risk for osteopenia due to various physiological factors.
- Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions often involve infants with respiratory distress and prematurity.
- Osteopenia is a significant concern in preterm infants, potentially leading to fractures and long-term skeletal issues.
Observation:
- A preterm neonate (1500 g) presented with tachypnea and prematurity, requiring NICU admission.
- Elevated alkaline phosphatase levels and wrist X-rays indicated premature osteopenia.
- The infant received supportive care, including high-dose calcium and phosphorus supplementation.
Findings:
- Treatment with calcium and phosphorus led to a downward trend in alkaline phosphatase levels.
- This biochemical response suggests effective management of premature osteopenia.
- The case highlights the importance of monitoring and intervention for bone health in preterm infants.
Implications:
- Timely screening and appropriate nutritional supplementation can prevent the progression of osteopenia in premature infants.
- Understanding and mitigating risk factors associated with prematurity can reduce the incidence of osteopenia.
- Effective management strategies are essential for improving skeletal outcomes in vulnerable neonates.
Abstract:
The girl neonate with 1500 g, was transferred to the neonatal intensive care unit due to tachypnea and prematurity. She received supportive and therapeutic care in the course of hospitalization. Due to the high level of alkaline phosphatase in the examinations and x-rays of the wrist, premature osteopenia was diagnosed and she was treated with high doses of calcium and phosphorus. Alkaline phosphatase was measured weekly in the course of treatment, with its downward trend indicating an appropriate response to treatment. Although osteoporosis is a common and recurrent disease in premature neonate, but it can be decrease with preventing factors that lead to premature infants and by providing necessary screening and proper timely treatment with nutritional supplements and prevented the progress of the disease.
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