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Malnutrition in critically ill infants and children
JPEN. Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition
|January 1, 1982
Summary
Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) and nutrient deficiencies are common in critically ill children. Nearly 20% of pediatric intensive care unit patients experienced acute or chronic PEM, with younger children at higher risk.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric critical care medicine
- Clinical nutrition
- Nutritional epidemiology
Background:
- Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) and nutrient deficiencies are significant concerns in pediatric intensive care.
- Limited data exists on the prevalence of these conditions in this vulnerable population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of acute and chronic PEM.
- To assess deficiencies in fat and somatic protein stores in critically ill infants and children.
Main Methods:
- Nutritional assessments using anthropometric techniques.
- Evaluated 108 infants and children in a multidisciplinary intensive care unit.
Main Results:
- Prevalence of acute PEM was 19%; chronic PEM was 18%.
- Fat store depletion was 14%; somatic protein depletion was 21%.
- Children under 2 years had poorer nutritional status than older children.
Conclusions:
- PEM and macronutrient deficiencies are prevalent in critically ill pediatric patients.
- Nutritional status is a key concern in pediatric intensive care, particularly for younger children.