Clostridia colonization and clostridial toxin in neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis

Abstract

produce clinical copper deficiency (except for a lower hematocrit at six months) in premature infants fed much lower copper intakes. This study suggests the age at which infants of different gestations can be expected to have an increase in serum copper and ceruloplasmin concentrations. Infants past that age (after 3 months in most very premature infants) who have very low serum copper concentrations may be copper deficient, especially if clinically compatible, and may benefit from additional copper supplies. Prior to that time, serum copper and ceruloplasmin values are probably inadequate indicators of total body copper status, and the benefit to risk ratio of copper supplementation is not established. In the great majority of infants, serum copper concentrations will rise spontaneously as either the liver, gastrointestinal tract, or both, mature.