Regional disparities in BCG vaccination coverage and tuberculosis incidence in infants among Brazilian states.

Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccination and tuberculosis (TB) incidence in children under 1 year of age are critical public health indicators in Brazil. The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic disrupted vaccination coverage (VC), potentially impacting TB incidence. Understanding regional disparities in VC and TB incidence can inform targeted interventions. We conducted an observational and ecological study using BCG vaccination data (2019-21) and TB incidence (2020-22) for all births in Brazil. Data were collected from public health databases, stratified by state, and analyzed using descriptive and analytical statistics to explore VC and TB incidence. Between 2019 and 2021, average BCG VC was 79.59%, with significant variation among states (P < .001). Only four states achieved minimum recommended coverage (>90%). TB incidence varied significantly among states (P = .003). There was a notable decline in VC from 2019 (90.72%) to 2021 (78.67%) (P < .001). This study highlights regional disparities in BCG VC and TB incidence among Brazilian states. Lower VC post-pandemic may increase TB incidence, requiring targeted interventions in states with inadequate coverage. The findings underscore the importance of sustaining vaccination programs amidst public health crises and implementing strategies to enhance access and uptake.

Antibiotics and beyond: Unraveling the dynamics of bronchopulmonary dysplasia in very preterm infants.

BACKGROUND: Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) remains a significant challenge in neonatal care. Prenatal inflammation and neonatal sepsis contribute to the multifactorial nature of BPD. A potential association between empirical antibiotic therapy and BPD risk has been proposed due to microbiota dysbiosis in very low birth weight premature infants. METHODS: A single centered retrospective cohort study of preterm infants (24-32 weeks gestation) from 2014 to 2021. The study compared groups that received empirical antibiotics in the first days of life and those that did not receive any antibiotic in the first days of life. The primary outcomes studied were BPD, death, and the combined outcome of BPD/death. Statistical analysis employed t-tests, Mann-Whitney U, Chi-square, and logistic regression. RESULTS: Of 454 preterm infants, 61.5% received antibiotics. This group had lower gestational age, birth weight, and Apgar scores. Antibiotic use was associated with higher incidence of BPD (35.5% vs. 10.3%), death (21.5% vs. 8.6%), and combined outcomes (54.5% vs. 18.3%). In multivariate analysis, antibiotic use independently associated with BPD (OR 2.58, p < 0.001) and combined outcome BPD/death (OR 2.06, p < 0.02). Antenatal corticosteroids provided protection against BPD, but not mortality. CONCLUSION: This study suggests an association between early empirical antibiotic use and BPD in preterm infants, emphasizing the need for judicious antibiotic practices in neonatal care.

Association between type of feeding at hospital discharge and nutritional status of Brazilian very preterm infants: a multicenter study.

OBJECTIVES: To examine trends over time in diet and size of very preterm infants, and associations of diet with size at hospital discharge/transfer. METHODS: The authors studied 4062 surviving very preterm infants born < 32 weeks' gestational age and < 1500 g between January 2012 and December 2020 from 12 Brazilian Neonatal Intensive Care Units. Diet type at discharge/transfer was classified as exclusive human milk, exclusive formula, or mixed. Outcomes were weight and head circumference at hospital discharge and the change in each from birth to discharge. The authors used linear regression to estimate adjusted associations of diet type with infant size, overall, and stratified by fetal growth category (small vs. appropriate for gestational age). The authors also examined trends in diet and infant size at discharge over the years. RESULTS: Infants' mean gestational age at birth was 29.3 weeks, and the mean birth weight was 1136 g. Diet at discharge/transfer was exclusive human milk for 22 %, mixed for 62 %, and exclusive formula for 16 %. Infant size in weight and head circumference were substantially below the growth chart reference for all diets. Infants fed human milk and mixed diets were lighter and had smaller heads at discharge/transfer than infants fed formula only (weight z: -2.0, -1.8, and -1.5; head z: -1.3, -1.2 and -1.1 for exclusive human milk, mixed and exclusive formula respectively). CONCLUSION: Results suggest high human milk use but gaps in nutrient delivery among hospitalized Brazilian very preterm infants, with little evidence of improvement over time.

Administration time of caffeine in preterm infants: systematic review and meta-analysis.

To assess the ideal time for caffeine administration in preterms, identifying its effects and safety. Study Design: Meta-analysis conducted including preterms <32 weeks GA or BW < 1500 g, comparing caffeine administration time: <24 x ≥24HOL, <48 x ≥48HOL, <72 x ≥72HOL. 18 studies included 76.998 patients. The median age of starting caffeine was the first 24 HOL. In the overall comparisons, there was reduction in patent ductus arteriosus (OR 0.71 [0.55, 0. 92]; low evidence), retinopathy of prematurity (OR 0.71 [0.54, 0.93]; moderate evidence), severe brain injury (OR 0.79 [0.70, 0.91]; moderate evidence), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) (OR 0.69 [0.59, 0.81]; moderate evidence), composite outcome of BPD or death (OR 0.76 [0.66, 0.88]; moderate evidence). Mortality increase was found (OR 1.20 [1.12, 1.29], very low evidence).Caffeine in the first 24 HOL has benefits in reducing morbidities associated with prematurity. Mortality finding is potentially due to survival bias.

Parent-Guided Developmental Intervention for Infants With Very Low Birth Weight: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Importance: Early interventions improve neurodevelopmental outcomes after preterm birth, but few studies of early intervention have focused on preterm infants whose families reside in low- or middle-income countries (LMICs). Objective: To evaluate whether parent-guided early intervention improves the neurodevelopmental outcomes of preterm infants in an LMIC. Design, Setting, and Participants: This randomized clinical trial was performed at a high-risk obstetric referral hospital in Brazil, with outcome evaluations by examiners masked to randomization group. Eligibility criteria were (1) birth at the study hospital, (2) residence within 40 km of the birth hospital, and (3) gestational age of less than 32 weeks or birth weight of less than 1500 g. Of 138 enrolled infants, 19 died after randomization and 19 withdrew from the study; all other enrollees (50 per randomization group) were evaluated for the primary outcome. Data were collected from January 1, 2016, to May 31, 2022, and analyzed from June 10 to July 31, 2022. Interventions: On postnatal day 7, infants were randomized to usual care, consisting of support for lactation, kangaroo care, and routine developmental therapies, or to a parent-guided enhanced developmental intervention, consisting of usual care plus infant massage and enhanced visual stimulation, auditory stimulation, social interactions, and support for motor development, instructed by developmental therapists. Main Outcomes and Measures: The primary outcome was the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development-Third Edition score at 18 months of age adjusted for prematurity. Results: Among the 100 infants included in the analysis, mean (SD) gestational age was 28.4 (2.2) weeks, and 57 (57%) were male. The mean (SD) gestational age for the intervention group was 28.3 (2.3) weeks; for the usual care group, 28.5 (2.2) weeks. Female infants accounted for 21 infants (42%) of the intervention group and 22 (44%) of the usual care group; male infants, 29 (58%) and 28 (56%), respectively. The enhanced developmental intervention group had higher cognitive scores at 18 months of corrected age (mean [SD], 101.8 [11.9] vs 97.3 [13.5]; mean difference, 4.5 [95% CI, 0.1-8.9]). Conclusions and Relevance: In this randomized clinical trial of a parent-guided developmental intervention for early cognitive function of very preterm or very low birth weight infants implemented in an LMIC, the intervention improved very preterm infants' neurodevelopmental outcomes at 18 months of adjusted age. Parent-guided early intervention can improve neurodevelopmental outcome of very preterm infants born in LMICs. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02835612.

Comparison of the effectiveness of different high-flow devices in neonatal care

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the success rate of high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) therapy using an adapted obsolete mechanical ventilator (MV), Optiflow™ and Vapotherm™ in newborns (NBs). Method: This was a retrospective observational study conducted in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The sample comprised NBs who underwent HFNC therapy due to ventilatory dysfunction, for weaning from non-invasive ventilation (NIV), or post-extubation. The three groups, stratified according to gestational age (GA) and birth weight, and corrected GA and weight at the beginning of HFNC use, were as follows: Optiflow ™, Vapotherm ™, and obsolete Mechanical Ventilator (MV) adapted for high flow therapy. Subsequently, the NBs were divided into a success group (SG) and a failure group (FG). HFNC success was defined as a therapy duration exceeding 72 h. Results: A total of 209 NBs were evaluated, with 31.1 % using HFNC due to ventilatory dysfunction, 2.4 % after extubation, and 66.5 % after NIV weaning. HFNC success rate was observed in 90.9 % of the NBs, with no difference between equipment types (Vapotherm ™, Optiflow ™, and adapted VM). Conclusion: Different types of HFNC equipment are equally effective when used in neonatology for respiratory dysfunction, as a method of weaning from NIV and post-extubation. Adapted obsolete MV can be an alternative for HFCN therapy in resource-constrained settings.

Developmental coordination disorder in preterm children: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

This study aimed to review the prevalence of developmental coordination disorder (DCD) in individuals born preterm and systematically explore this prevalence according to gestational age and different assessment cut-offs and compare it to full-term peers. The eligibility criteria were observational and experimental studies reporting the prevalence of DCD in preterm individuals. A systematic search was performed in databases from inception until March 2022. Two independent reviewers performed the selection. Study quality assessment was performed using the checklists from Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). Data analysis was performed on Excel and Review Manager Software 5.4. Among the 1774 studies identified, 32 matched the eligibility criteria. The pooled estimate rate of the DCD rate in preterm was 21% (95% confidence interval [CI] 17.8-24.3). The estimate rates were higher as gestational age decreased, and preterm children are two times more likely to have DCD than their full-term peers risk ratio (RR) 2.2 (95% CI 1.77-2.79). The limitation was high heterogeneity between studies; the assessment tools, cut-off points and age at assessment were diverse. This study provided evidence that preterm children are at higher risk for DCD than full-term children, and the risks increased as gestational age decreased.

Ruas de Lazer em Pelotas: Modelo lógico e descrição dos processos de planejamento e execução / Open streets in Pelotas: Logical model and description of the planning and execution process

O objetivo do estudo foi desenvolver o modelo lógico do projeto Ruas de Lazer na cidade de Pelotas em 2022, assim como descrever os processos de planejamento, pactuação e execução. Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo, que utilizou a técnica de observação participante e o emprego de modelo lógico. O projeto possui características de gestão compartilhada que demarcam potencial relevante na criação de vínculo entre universidade, gestão pública e população local. Em 2022, sete eventos foram realizados com proposição de atividades culturais com música e dança, atividades físicas e esportivas e de educação em saúde. O projeto está em permanente construção e evolução, apostando na ampliação de investimentos para atingir os objetivos imediatos de oferta de atividades de lazer e de ampliação da democratização de acesso aos espaços públicos para o uso da população.

The aim of this study was to develop a logical model of the Ruas de Lazer project in the city of Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, in 2022, as well as to describe the processes of planning, agreement, and execution. This is a qualitative study that employed the technique of participant observation and the use of a logical model. The project has characteristics of shared management that mark a relevant potential in creating a bond between the university, public management, and the local population. In 2022, seven events were held, proposing cultural activities with music and dance, physical and sports activities, and health education. The project is in permanent construction and evolution, betting on the expansion of investments to achieve the immediate objectives of offering leisure activities and expanding the democratization of access to public spaces for the use of the population.

Position paper of diagnosis and treatment of post-extubation laryngitis in children: a multidisciplinary expert-based opinion.

OBJECTIVES: To make recommendations on the diagnosis and treatment of post-extubation laryngitis (PEL) in children with or without other comorbidities. METHODS: A three-iterative modified Delphi method was applied. Specialists were recruited representing pediatric otolaryngologists, pediatric and neonatal intensivists. Questions and statements approached topics encompassing definition, diagnosis, endoscopic airway evaluation, risk factors, comorbidities, management, and follow-up. A consensus was defined as a supermajority >70%. RESULTS: Stridor was considered the most frequent symptom and airway endoscopy was recommended for definitive diagnosis. Gastroesophageal reflux and previous history of intubation were considered risk factors. Specific length of intubation did not achieve a consensus as a risk factor. Systemic corticosteroids should be part of the medical treatment and dexamethasone was the drug of choice. No consensus was achieved regarding dosage of corticosteroids, although endoscopic findings help defining dosage and length of treatment. Non-invasive ventilation, laryngeal rest, and use of comfort sedation scales were recommended. Indications for microlaryngoscopy and bronchoscopy under anesthesia were symptoms progression or failure to improve after the first 72-h of medical treatment post-extubation, after two failed extubations, and/or suspicion of severe lesions on flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy. CONCLUSIONS: Management of post-extubation laryngitis is challenging and can be facilitated by a multidisciplinary approach. Airway endoscopy is mandatory and impacts decision-making, although there is no consensus regarding dosage and length of treatment.

Maternal-fetal-neonatal microbiome and outcomes associated with prematurity.

Our understanding of the premature gut microbiome has increased rapidly in recent years. However, to advance this important topic we must further explore various aspects of the maternal microbiome, neonatal microbiota, and the opportunities for microbiome modulation. We invite authors to contribute research and clinical papers to the Collection "Maternal-fetal-neonatal microbiome and outcomes associated with prematurity".

Less invasive surfactant administration versus intubation-surfactant-extubation in the treatment of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analyses.

OBJECTIVES: To compare LISA with INSURE technique for surfactant administration in preterm with gestational age (GA) < 36 weeks with RDS in respect to the incidence of pneumothorax, bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), need for mechanical ventilation (MV), regional cerebral oxygen saturation (rSO2), peri­intraventricular hemorrhage (PIVH) and mortality. METHODS: A systematic search in PubMed, Embase, Lilacs, CINAHL, SciELO databases, Brazilian Registry of Randomized Clinical Trials (ReBEC), Clinicaltrials.gov, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) was performed. RCTs evaluating the effects of the LISA technique versus INSURE in preterm infants with gestational age < 36 weeks and that had as outcomes evaluation of the rates of pneumothorax, BPD, need for MV, rSO2, PIVH, and mortality were included in the meta-analysis. Random effects and hazard ratio models were used to combine all study results. Inter-study heterogeneity was assessed using Cochrane Q statistics and Higgin's I2 statistics. RESULTS: Sixteen RCTs published between 2012 and 2020 met the inclusion criteria, a total of 1,944 preterms. Eleven studies showed a shorter duration of MV and CPAP in the LISA group than in INSURE group. Two studies evaluated rSO2 and suggested that LISA and INSURE transiently affect brain autoregulation during surfactant administration. INSURE group had a higher risk for MV in the first 72 h of life, pneumothorax, PIVH and mortality in comparison to the LISA group. CONCLUSION: This systematic review and meta-analyses provided evidence for the benefits of the LISA technique in the treatment of RDS, decreasing CPAP time, need for MV, BPD, pneumothorax, PIVH, and mortality when compared to INSURE.

Comparison of the effectiveness of different high-flow devices in neonatal care.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the success rate of high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) therapy using an adapted obsolete mechanical ventilator (MV), Optiflow™ and Vapotherm™ in newborns (NBs). METHOD: This was a retrospective observational study conducted in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The sample comprised NBs who underwent HFNC therapy due to ventilatory dysfunction, for weaning from non-invasive ventilation (NIV), or post-extubation. The three groups, stratified according to gestational age (GA) and birth weight, and corrected GA and weight at the beginning of HFNC use, were as follows: Optiflow ™, Vapotherm ™, and obsolete Mechanical Ventilator (MV) adapted for high flow therapy. Subsequently, the NBs were divided into a success group (SG) and a failure group (FG). HFNC success was defined as a therapy duration exceeding 72 h. RESULTS: A total of 209 NBs were evaluated, with 31.1 % using HFNC due to ventilatory dysfunction, 2.4 % after extubation, and 66.5 % after NIV weaning. HFNC success rate was observed in 90.9 % of the NBs, with no difference between equipment types (Vapotherm ™, Optiflow ™, and adapted VM). CONCLUSION: Different types of HFNC equipment are equally effective when used in neonatology for respiratory dysfunction, as a method of weaning from NIV and post-extubation. Adapted obsolete MV can be an alternative for HFCN therapy in resource-constrained settings.

Less invasive surfactant administration versus intubation-surfactant-extubation in the treatment of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analyses

Abstract Objectives To compare LISA with INSURE technique for surfactant administration in preterm with gestational age (GA) < 36 weeks with RDS in respect to the incidence of pneumothorax, bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), need for mechanical ventilation (MV), regional cerebral oxygen saturation (rSO2), peri‑intraventricular hemorrhage (PIVH) and mortality. Methods A systematic search in PubMed, Embase, Lilacs, CINAHL, SciELO databases, Brazilian Registry of Randomized Clinical Trials (ReBEC), Clinicaltrials.gov, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) was performed. RCTs evaluating the effects of the LISA technique versus INSURE in preterm infants with gestational age < 36 weeks and that had as outcomes evaluation of the rates of pneumothorax, BPD, need for MV, rSO2, PIVH, and mortality were included in the meta-analysis. Random effects and hazard ratio models were used to combine all study results. Inter-study heterogeneity was assessed using Cochrane Q statistics and Higgin's I2 statistics. Results Sixteen RCTs published between 2012 and 2020 met the inclusion criteria, a total of 1,944 preterms. Eleven studies showed a shorter duration of MV and CPAP in the LISA group than in INSURE group. Two studies evaluated rSO2 and suggested that LISA and INSURE transiently affect brain autoregulation during surfactant administration. INSURE group had a higher risk for MV in the first 72 h of life, pneumothorax, PIVH and mortality in comparison to the LISA group. Conclusion This systematic review and meta-analyses provided evidence for the benefits of the LISA technique in the treatment of RDS, decreasing CPAP time, need for MV, BPD, pneumothorax, PIVH, and mortality when compared to INSURE.

Position paper of diagnosis and treatment of post-extubation laryngitis in children: a multidisciplinary expert-based opinion

Abstract Objectives To make recommendations on the diagnosis and treatment of post-extubation laryngitis (PEL) in children with or without other comorbidities. Methods A three-iterative modified Delphi method was applied. Specialists were recruited representing pediatric otolaryngologists, pediatric and neonatal intensivists. Questions and statements approached topics encompassing definition, diagnosis, endoscopic airway evaluation, risk factors, comorbidities, management, and follow-up. A consensus was defined as a supermajority >70%. Results Stridor was considered the most frequent symptom and airway endoscopy was recommended for definitive diagnosis. Gastroesophageal reflux and previous history of intubation were considered risk factors. Specific length of intubation did not achieve a consensus as a risk factor. Systemic corticosteroids should be part of the medical treatment and dexamethasone was the drug of choice. No consensus was achieved regarding dosage of corticosteroids, although endoscopic findings help defining dosage and length of treatment. Non-invasive ventilation, laryngeal rest, and use of comfort sedation scales were recommended. Indications for microlaryngoscopy and bronchoscopy under anesthesia were symptoms progression or failure to improve after the first 72-h of medical treatment post-extubation, after two failed extubations, and/or suspicion of severe lesions on flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy. Conclusions Management of post-extubation laryngitis is challenging and can be facilitated by a multidisciplinary approach. Airway endoscopy is mandatory and impacts decision-making, although there is no consensus regarding dosage and length of treatment.

The Influence of Early Nutrition on Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Preterm Infants.

Premature infants, given their limited reserves, heightened energy requirements, and susceptibility to nutritional deficits, require specialized care. AIM: To examine the complex interplay between nutrition and neurodevelopment in premature infants, underscoring the critical need for tailored nutritional approaches to support optimal brain growth and function. DATA SOURCES: PubMed and MeSH and keywords: preterm, early nutrition, macronutrients, micronutrients, human milk, human milk oligosaccharides, probiotics AND neurodevelopment or neurodevelopment outcomes. Recent articles were selected according to the authors' judgment of their relevance. Specific nutrients, including macro (amino acids, glucose, and lipids) and micronutrients, play an important role in promoting neurodevelopment. Early and aggressive nutrition has shown promise, as has recognizing glucose as the primary energy source for the developing brain. Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as DHA, contribute to brain maturation, while the benefits of human milk, human milk oligosaccharides, and probiotics on neurodevelopment via the gut-brain axis are explored. This intricate interplay between the gut microbiota and the central nervous system highlights human milk oligosaccharides' role in early brain maturation. CONCLUSIONS: Individualized nutritional approaches and comprehensive nutrient strategies are paramount to enhancing neurodevelopment in premature infants, underscoring human milk's potential as the gold standard of nutrition for preterm infants.

Cytokine Levels in Neonates: Unveiling the Impact of Perinatal Inflammation on Prematurity.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the association between variations in cytokine levels in the first 72 hours of life and prematurity. STUDY DESIGN: In this prospective study, we examined the cytokine levels of 110 newborns in the first 72 hours of life. The participants were divided into two groups based on gestational age (66 very preterm and 44 term newborns), and cytokine levels (interleukin [IL]-6, IL-8, and IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-α [TNF-α], and transforming growth factor-ß [TGF-ß]) were evaluated. RESULTS: Premature newborns exhibited higher levels of IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10, while TNF-α and TGF-ß levels were lower comparing to term newborns. Even after adjusting for maternal and peripartum factors, the significant differences persisted. CONCLUSION: Our study underscores significant cytokine profile differences between full-term and very preterm newborns in early life. Elevated IL-6 and IL-8 levels in preterm infants suggest potential perinatal inflammation links to prematurity. KEY POINTS: · There is a direct association between cytokine levels and prematurity.. · Knowledge of the variation of cytokines in newborns enhances personalized interventions.. · Cytokine levels are early associated with gestational age.

Incidence of nasal pressure injury in preterm infants on nasal mask noninvasive ventilation.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of nasal injury in preterm newborns (NB) using the Neonatal Skin Condition Score within 7 days of noninvasive ventilation (NIV) and to compare the incidence of injury in NB weighing ≥1,000 g and those weighing <1,000 g at the time of initiation of NIV support. METHODS: This is a prospective, observational study carried out in a neonatal intensive care unit of a public hospital in Rio Grande do Sul from July 2016 to January 2021. Patients were stratified into two groups at the time of NIV initiation: group 1 (weight ≥1,000 g) and group 2 (weight <1,000 g). To assess the condition of nasal injury, a rating scale called the Neonatal Skin Condition Score was applied during the first seven consecutive days on NIV. Kaplan-Meier, log-rank test, and Cox proportional hazards regression were used to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS: In total, 184 NB were evaluated. Nasal injury was reported in 55 (30%) NB. The risk of nasal injury was 74% higher in group 2 (19/45) than in group 1 (36/139) (HR: 1.74; 95%CI 0.99-3.03, p=0.048). CONCLUSION: The incidence of nasal injury in infants submitted to NIV by nasal mask was high, and the risk of this injury was greater in preterm infants weighing <1,000 g.

Prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in neonates receiving parenteral nutrition in the intensive care unit

Abstract Objective: The use of parenteral nutrition (PN) formulations that do not contain iodine can contribute to the deficiency of this mineral, potentially leading to hypothyroidism and, ultimately, neurocognitive impairments. This study aimed to evaluate TSH alterations in newborns receiving PN. Methods: Retrospective study of neonatal intensive care unit patients receiving PN for > 15 days. Nutritional, anthropometric, and biochemical variables (TSH, T4, CRP) were analyzed. Hypothyroidism was defined by TSH > 10 mU/L. Results: Two hundred newborns were evaluated [156 (78%) preterm, 31±5 weeks of gestational age, 112 (56%) with very or extremely low birth weight]. The median (IQR) hospital stay was 68 (42-110) days, PN duration was 31 (21-47) days, and 188 (94%) patients also received enteral nutrition. Overall, 143 (71.5%) newborns underwent at least one TSH measurement. The prevalence of hypothyroidism was 10.5%. The Median PN duration in this group was 51 (34-109) days. Among those with hypothyroidism, 10 received Lugol's solution and six levothyroxine. Thirteen patients received prophylactic Lugol's solution with a median PN duration of 63 (48-197) days. TSH levels correlated positively with PN duration (r = 0.19, p = .02). Conclusions: The present data suggest that changes in TSH and T4 levels are present in neonates receiving PN for > 15 days, suggesting this population may be at risk for developing hypothyroid-ism. Therefore, the authors suggest that TSH and T4 measurements should be included as routine in neonatal patients receiving PN for > 15 days if PN formulations are not supplemented with iodine, and that iodine supplementation be provided as necessary.

Growth phenotypes of very low birth weight infants for prediction of neonatal outcomes from a Brazilian cohort: comparison with INTERGROWTH

Abstract Objective: To assess the predictive value of selected growth phenotypes for neonatal morbidity and mortality in preterm infants < 30 weeks and to compare them with INTERGROWTH-21st (IG21). Methods: Retrospective analysis of data from the Brazilian Neonatal Research Network (BNRN) database for very low birth weight (VLBW) at 20 public tertiary-care university hospitals. Outcome: the composite neonatal morbidity and mortality (CNMM) consisted of in-hospital death, oxygen use at 36 weeks, intraventricular hemorrhage grade 3 or 4, and Bell stage 2 or 3 necrotizing enterocolitis. Selected growth phenotypes: small-for-gestational-age (SGA) defined as being < 3rd (SGA3) or 10th (SGA10) percentiles of BW, and large-for-gestational-age (LGA) as being > 97th percentile of BW. Stunting as being < 3rd percentile of the length and wasting as being < 3rd percentile of BMI. Single and multiple log-binomial regression models were fitted to estimate the relative risks of CNMM, comparing them to IG21. Results: 4,072 infants were included. The adjusted relative risks of CNMM associated with selected growth phenotypes were (BNRN/IG21): 1.45 (0.92-2.31)/1.60 (1.27-2.02) for SGA; 0.90 (0.55-1.47)/1.05 (0.55-1.99) for LGA; 1.65 (1.08-2.51)/1.58 (1.28-1.96) for stunting; and 1.48 (1.02-2.17) for wasting. Agreement between the two references was variable. The growth phenotypes had good specificity (>95%) and positive predictive value (70-90%), with poor sensitivity and low negative predictive value. Conclusion: The BNRN phenotypes at birth differed markedly from the IG21 standard and showed poor accuracy in predicting adverse neonatal outcomes.

Prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in neonates receiving parenteral nutrition in the intensive care unit.

OBJECTIVE: The use of parenteral nutrition (PN) formulations that do not contain iodine can contribute to the deficiency of this mineral, potentially leading to hypothyroidism and, ultimately, neurocognitive impairments. This study aimed to evaluate TSH alterations in newborns receiving PN. METHODS: Retrospective study of neonatal intensive care unit patients receiving PN for > 15 days. Nutritional, anthropometric, and biochemical variables (TSH, T4, CRP) were analyzed. Hypothyroidism was defined by TSH > 10 mU/L. RESULTS: Two hundred newborns were evaluated [156 (78%) preterm, 31±5 weeks of gestational age, 112 (56%) with very or extremely low birth weight]. The median (IQR) hospital stay was 68 (42-110) days, PN duration was 31 (21-47) days, and 188 (94%) patients also received enteral nutrition. Overall, 143 (71.5%) newborns underwent at least one TSH measurement. The prevalence of hypothyroidism was 10.5%. The Median PN duration in this group was 51 (34-109) days. Among those with hypothyroidism, 10 received Lugol's solution and six levothyroxine. Thirteen patients received prophylactic Lugol's solution with a median PN duration of 63 (48-197) days. TSH levels correlated positively with PN duration (r = 0.19, p = .02). CONCLUSIONS: The present data suggest that changes in TSH and T4 levels are present in neonates receiving PN for > 15 days, suggesting this population may be at risk for developing hypothyroidism. Therefore, the authors suggest that TSH and T4 measurements should be included as routine in neonatal patients receiving PN for > 15 days if PN formulations are not supplemented with iodine, and that iodine supplementation be provided as necessary.