Serum retinol levels and neonatal outcomes in preterm infants

Abstract

Glucocorticoids are frequently administered to preterm infants, both antenatally and postnatally; however, the effect on serum retinol levels has not been determined. The risk of bronchopulmonary dysplasia is increased in premature infants with low retinol concentrations. Objectives: Our purpose was to determine the effect of glucocorticoid administration on serum retinol levels in preterm infants. Methods: All infants 90 days); low retinol levels conferred an increased risk for bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Prolonged duration of total parenteral nutrition (>21 days) was associated with serum retinol deficiency during hospitalization (P < 0.05). Retinol deficiency was associated with an increased risk for delayed neurological development in 1-year-old and 2-year-old children. Conclusion: Glucocorticoids do not affect retinol levels in premature infants, but retinol concentrations are correlated with respiratory and neurological outcomes.

Keywords

• Bronchopulmonary dysplasia
• Glucocorticoids
• Preterm infant
• Retinopathy of prematurity
• Retinol