Bone mineral metabolism in the micropremie

Bone growth and mineralization result from two separate but interrelated ph enomena: matrix synthesis and mineral deposition. During the last part of g estation, mineralization is proportionally higher than bone growth, which r esults in a progressive increase in mineral density. By contrast, after bir th in ELBW infants, growth (i.e., predominantly bone mineralization) is imp aired during the first weeks of life leading to a progressive reduction in bone mineral density and in the occurrence of osteopenia. Numerous factors influence growth and mineralization in the postneonatal period, as well as the mineral status at discharge. Long term assessment of the early Linear g rowth deficit and skeletal demineralization of micropremies is currently un der investigation. Despite being frequently smaller and lighter than their term counterparts, a complete catch-up of bone mineralization predominates in these preterm infants; however, the definitive effect on bone mass and m etabolic bone disease in adults requires further evaluation.