Time course of vitamin E repletion in the premature infant.
Plasma and erythrocyte (RBC) tocopherol-isomer concentrations were determined serially in forty-two premature infants (25-35 weeks gestation) from birth to 8 weeks of age. For comparison purposes vitamin E status was also determined in six term infants over the first 8 d following birth and in a group of thirteen adult volunteers. Vitamin E intakes in term and preterm infants were calculated from recorded food intakes and blood transfusions. In term infants plasma vitamin E concentration rose from 1.9 mg/l (day 1) to 8.2 mg/l by day 8. In comparison preterm plasma vitamin E concentration, 0.3 mg/l (day 1), did not change appreciably by day 8 (0.7 mg/l). Likewise RBC vitamin E concentration increased in term infants from 1.3 mg/l (day 1) to 2.7 mg/l (day 8), while in preterm infants it remained unchanged, 1.5 mg/1 (day 1) v. 1.3 mg/l (day 8). Over the 3 weeks following birth, RBC vitamin E concentrations in the premature infants increased to adult values, while plasma vitamin E concentration did not reach the adult range until 8 weeks post-term. These slow changes in plasma vitamin E status occurred even though the vitamin E intake of these infants was similar to that proving adequate for term infants.
Kelly
F J
FJ
Department of Human Nutrition, University of Southampton, Bassett Crescent East.
Rodgers
W
W
Handel
J
J
Smith
S
S
Hall
M A
MA
D000328:Adult; D004912:Erythrocytes / Q000032:analysis / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature / Q000097:blood*; D007536:Isomerism; D010949:Plasma / Q000032:analysis; D013997:Time Factors; D014810:Vitamin E / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000097:blood* / Q000378:metabolism
D014810:Vitamin E