Neurodevelopmental outcomes at 3–12 months corrected age in predominantly enteral-fed very low birth weight infants in a resource-limited South African setting - Report - MDSpire
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Neurodevelopmental outcomes at 3–12 months corrected age in predominantly enteral-fed very low birth weight infants in a resource-limited South African setting
Neurodevelopmental Outcomes and Growth Patterns in Enterally Fed VLBW Infants
Overview
This study evaluates neurodevelopmental outcomes and growth patterns in very low birth weight infants (VLBWIs) fed predominantly enterally in a resource-constrained South African setting. Most infants showed a high prevalence of extrauterine growth restriction, with neurodevelopmental outcomes assessed at 12 months corrected age.
Background
Very low birth weight infants are at significant risk for neurodevelopmental impairment, and understanding the impact of nutrition on their development is crucial. Most existing evidence comes from high-income countries, where parenteral nutrition is common, leaving a gap in knowledge regarding enteral feeding strategies in low-resource settings. This study aims to assess outcomes in a predominantly enteral-fed cohort.
Data Highlights
Measure
Value
Infants assessed at 12 months
190 (64.2%)
Mean HINE score
75.2 ± 7.7
Abnormal HINE classification
5 (2.6%)
Prevalence of EUGR
33.7%
Key Findings
64.2% of VLBWIs attended the 12-month neurodevelopmental assessment.
Mean HINE score was 75.2 ± 7.7, with only 2.6% classified as abnormal.
Extrauterine growth restriction (EUGR) was prevalent at 33.7% but not associated with neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI).
Late-onset sepsis and metabolic bone disease were linked to increased odds of abnormal neurodevelopmental outcomes.
Associations between neonatal morbidities and NDI persisted in multivariable analysis.
Clinical Implications
The findings indicate that while EUGR is common, it may not correlate with neurodevelopmental outcomes in enterally fed VLBWIs. Monitoring for neonatal morbidities, such as late-onset sepsis and metabolic bone disease, is important as they may impact neurodevelopment.
Conclusion
This study provides data on early motor outcomes for predominantly enterally fed VLBWIs, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring of neurodevelopmental outcomes.
