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Rapid Turnover Transport Proteins, Plasma Albumin, and Growth in Low Birth Weight Infants
Author(s) -
Giacoia George P.,
Watson Susan,
West Kerstin
Publication year - 1984
Publication title -
journal of parenteral and enteral nutrition
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.935
H-Index - 98
eISSN - 1941-2444
pISSN - 0148-6071
DOI - 10.1177/0148607184008004367
Subject(s) - albumin , low birth weight , blood proteins , medicine , serum albumin , human albumin , endocrinology , chemistry , biology , pregnancy , genetics
The purpose of this investigation was to establish normative data and to detemine the value of measuring rapid plasma turnover proteins in low birth weight infants during the neonatal period. Forty‐three premature, adequate for gestational age infants were divided in three groups according to their birth weight: group A <1000 g, group B 1001 to 1500 g, group C 1501 to 2000 g. Weekly anthropometric measurements and biochemical determinations were obtained. Anthropometric measurements included weight, crown heel length, midtricipital skinfold thickness, and midarm circumference. Biochemical studies in plasma included total proteins, albumin, prealbumin, and retinol‐binding protein. A significant increase in prealbumin concentration preceded weight gain. The elevation in prealbumin concentration was statistically significant ( p < 0.02) for the combined data from all groups and for infants included in group B and C ( p < 0.05). No concomitant changes were demonstrated in plasma retinol‐binding protein, albumin, or total proteins. The transient rise in prealbumin plasma concentrations remains unexplained, but may be related to the infant's nutritional status. ( Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition 8 :367–370, 1984)