t ime of onset of osteopenia in preterm newborns in a neonatology service

Introduction. Osteopenia is a decrease in bone density secondary to low bone mineralization and can present as rickets, osteomalacia and osteoporosis. The aim of this study is to detect when osteopenia is presented in preterm newborns (PTNB) of a neonatal ward. Methods. We carried out an observational, prospective, comparative clinical trial (study cohort) that included 30 PTNB admitted from November 2010 to August 2011 and who met the selection criteria. Alkaline phosphatase levels were considered elevated from 280 IU/l. Serum Ca, P, and alkaline phosphatase were determined in all patients. X-rays of long bones at 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks after admission were taken. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Significance levels were set at p <0.05. Results. The study population consisted of 30 PNB with a median gestational age of 29 weeks and median birth weight of 1055 g. Parenteral and enteral nutrition (mixed) was managed in all patients. Radiological changes suggestive of osteopenia were reported in 83.3% of patients during the first 2 weeks of study and at the end of the study in 86.7% of patients (n = 26). The median age of detection of osteopenia was 19 days of life. Conclusions. Osteopenia of prematurity occurs at approximately the third week after birth. These results present a different picture from that reported in the literature since the time of reporting these data. Preventing bone disease should be done early.