The incidence of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD) is high in preterm very-l
ow-birth-weight infants, and prematurity is one the main causes of neonatal
and infant morbidity and mortality in Mexico. The objective of the study w
as to evaluate vitamin A status of infants at risk for BPD. Serum retinol a
nd Retinol-Binding-Protein concentrations were measured, after obtaining pa
rents informed consent, 17 infants with birthweights <1500g, who needed Mec
hanical Mandatory Ventilation for at least 3 days after birth were included
all of whom developed BPD. Anthropometric measurements (length, weight, he
ad and arm circumferences) and blood samples (1 mt) were obtained at birth,
4,7,14, 21 and 28 days of life. Data are presented as means +/- standard d
eviation and quartiles, and were analyzed by One-Way ANOVA. Mean retinol co
ncentrations were significantly lower by day 28 than at birth, while REP re
mained constant, thus decreasing the Retinol/RBP molar ratio, indicating vi
tamin A deficiency in these infants. It is necessary to evaluate the effect
of Vitamin A supplementation in these infants in order to explore its effe
ct on the incidence of the disease. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Inc.