Osteopenia of Prematurity ✅ Flashcards
1
Q
Why are premature infants prone to poor bone mineralisation?
A
Due to phosphate deficiency
2
Q
What does reduced bone mineralisation in premature infants lead to?
A
- Widening and cupping of the wrists, knees, and ribs on x-ray
- Failure in linear growth
- Fractures
3
Q
What are the x-ray appearances in osteopenia of prematurity similar to?
A
Rickets
4
Q
Where is particularly susceptible to fracture in premature infants?
A
- Ribs
- Long bones
5
Q
What is found on blood tests in osteopenia of prematurity?
A
- Low phosphate
- Calcium normal or high
- Markedly elevated ALP
6
Q
What is ALP a marker of?
A
Bone burnover
7
Q
How can osteopenia of prematurity be prevented?
A
Phosphate supplementation
8
Q
How can phosphate be supplemented in neonates?
A
- Additional phosphate in parenteral nutrition
- Oral phosphate
- Using preterm milk fortifier
9
Q
When can providing sufficient phosphate be difficult?
A
If on long-term parenteral nutrition
10
Q
How is osteopenia of prematurity treated?
A
Oral phosphate and vitamin D supplements
