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Reference values for cerebrospinal fluid glutamine concentration in infants
Insights
Cerebrospinal fluid glutamine levels are lower in infants than adults. Meningitis, cerebral hemorrhage, and total parenteral nutrition significantly increase infant cerebrospinal fluid glutamine.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pediatric Neurology
- Clinical Chemistry
Background:
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) glutamine is a key metabolite.
- Reference ranges for infant CSF glutamine are not well-established.
- Glutamine metabolism may be altered in various pediatric neurological conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish reference ranges for CSF glutamine concentration in infants.
- To investigate factors influencing CSF glutamine levels in this age group.
Main Methods:
- CSF samples were collected from 85 infants (newborn to 30 months).
- Samples were from a reference group and patients with meningitis, cerebral hemorrhage, or receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN).
- Glutamine concentrations were measured using established biochemical assays.
Main Results:
- Mean CSF glutamine in the reference infant group was lower than reported adult values.
- Significantly elevated CSF glutamine was observed in infants with meningitis.
- Elevated CSF glutamine was also found in infants with cerebral hemorrhage or receiving TPN.
Conclusions:
- Infant CSF glutamine reference ranges differ from those in older populations.
- Meningitis, cerebral hemorrhage, and TPN are associated with increased CSF glutamine in infants.
- These findings highlight the dynamic nature of glutamine metabolism in early life.
Abstract:
We measured cerebrospinal fluid glutamine concentration in a reference group of 85 newborn to 30-month-old infants. All of the spinal taps were performed for the diagnosis of illnesses unrelated to hyperammonemia or hepatic encephalopathy. We also analyzed samples from patients with meningitis or cerebral hemorrhage, or who were receiving total parenteral nutrition. The mean glutamine concentration in cerebrospinal fluid in the reference group was somewhat lower than values reported for older children and adults. Values were significantly higher in patients with meningitis or cerebral hemorrhage and in those infants receiving total parenteral nutrition.