Enhancing Interpretation of One-Time Body Composition Measurement at Near-Term Gestation in Preterm Infants: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

In preterm infants, longitudinal growth patterns have a stronger association with clinical outcomes than cross-sectional metrics. For qualitative growth, a one-time body composition measurement at near term is common, and here we explore the potential use of a novel estimated longitudinal body composition metric (adjusted fat-free mass deficit) using birth anthropometrics.

Key Points

• Longitudinal growth patterns are better linked with clinical outcomes in preterm infants.

• Body composition is increasingly used to assess the quality of postnatal growth in preterm infants.

• Single body composition at term adjusted using birth weight may be better predictive for outcomes.

Keywords

body composition - preterm infants - postnatal growth

Note

S.V. is the guarantor of the article.

Publikationsverlauf

Eingereicht: 22. Juni 2022

Angenommen: 01. August 2022

Accepted Manuscript online:
16. August 2022

Artikel online veröffentlicht:
29. September 2022

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