Developed Refeeding Syndrome Research Articles

Features of refeeding syndrome in pediatric intensive care unit patients (literature review)

Introduction. Restoration of nutrition in patients with nutritional deficiency hospitalized in intensive care units is a complex process due to the high risk of the development of refeeding syndrome. Refeeding syndrome is insufficiently studied in children not only with regard to pathogenesis and intensive care, but also with regard to its influence on the further development of the child.Materials and methods. A non-systematic review of literature sources was performed. Domestic publications were searched in the database on the eLibrary website, foreign publications were searched in PubMed, Google Scholar, Cophrane Library, Cyberleninka, ResearchGate databases in the period 2017–2024. 73 full-text publications describing risk factors, peculiarities of mechanisms of refeeding syndrome development in children, clinical picture and methods of intensive therapy were analyzed.Results. The review analyzed and systematized the stratified risk factors, peculiarities of pathogenesis and clinical picture of refeeding syndrome in children depending on developing metabolic disorders. The connection of refeeding syndrome on the progression of nutritional deficiency is shown. The main methods of intensive therapy, including nutritional support for patients with high-risk and developed refeeding syndrome are determined.Conclusion. Currently, there is no unambiguous definition and diagnostic criteria for refeeding syndrome in children. Timely intensive therapy in cases of refeeding syndrome development allows to correct nutritional deficiency, to increase the survival rate of patients, can influence further growth and development of the child.

The Inpatient Management of Adolescents with Eating Disorders.

Eating disorders affect individuals of all ages, genders, sexual orientations, ethnicities, races, and socioeconomic statuses. They can lead to serious medical complications that require inpatient treatment. The eating disorders that are most likely to lead to medical complications requiring medical inpatient stabilization include anorexia nervosa, atypical anorexia nervosa, avoidant-restrictive food intake disorder, bulimia nervosa, and purging disorder. There are criteria that can help determine if a patient requires inpatient stabilization. Nearly all body systems may be affected. Patients are often treated by following a refeeding protocol that reduces the risk of developing refeeding syndrome, a dangerous and life-threatening state of metabolic derangements that can arise when a malnourished individual begins a renourishment process. Following stabilization, patients should receive further care through a number of different treatment options directed at their underlying eating disorder and by working with a multidisciplinary team. [Pediatr Ann. 2024;53(8):e283-e287.].

Risk factors and outcomes for refeeding syndrome in acute ischaemic stroke patients.

Patients with acute ischaemic stroke are more likely to develop refeeding syndrome due to increased need for nutritional support when suffering alterations of consciousness and impairment of swallowing. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence, risk factors and outcomes of refeeding syndrome in stroke patients. This was a retrospective observational study, using the prospective stroke database from hospital, included all consecutive acute ischaemic stroke patients who received enteral nutrition for more than 72 h from 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2022. Refeeding syndrome was defined as occurrence of new-onset hypophosphataemia within 72 h after enteral feeding. Multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted to evaluate risk factors and relationships between refeeding syndrome and stroke outcomes. 338 patients were included in the study. 50 patients (14.8%) developed refeeding syndrome. Higher scores on National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale and Nutritional Risk Screening 2002, albumin <30 g/L and BMI <18.5 kg/m2 were risk factors for refeeding syndrome. Moreover, refeeding syndrome was independently associated with a 3-month modified Rankin Scale score of >2 and 6-month mortality. Refeeding syndrome was common in stroke patients and higher baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, higher Nutritional Risk Screening 2002, albumin <30 g/L and BMI <18.5 kg/m2 were independent risk factors of refeeding syndrome. Occurrence of refeeding syndrome was significantly associated with higher 3-month modified Rankin Scale and 6-month mortality.

Association between energy delivery from parenteral nutrition and refeeding syndrome in hospitalized adults: A retrospective cohort study.

Patients receiving parenteral nutrition (PN) may develop refeeding syndrome (RFS). This study determined RFS prevalence in hospitalized adultson PN and evaluated whether higher energy delivered by PN on day 1 of PN initiation wasassociated with RFS development. We reviewed the medical records of adult patients receiving PN at a Thai quaternary hospital from June 2019 to May 2022. RFS was defined based on the Nutrition Management Clinical Practice Recommendation by the Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition of Thailand. The association between PN energy delivery and RFS development was determined using a generalized estimating equation for multiple logistic regression analysis adjusted for NICE guideline risk factors. A total of 547 patients was included (mean age 59.8 ± 17.2 years, mean body mass index 20.7 ± 4.8 ). The prevalence of RFS was 45%. Factors associated with RFS included energy from PN on the first day of PN initiation (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.17; 95% CI 1.04-1.33; for every 5 kcal/kg/day increase), starvation >5 days prior to PN (aOR 1.54; 95% CI 1.04-2.26), concomitant diuretic use (aOR 1.81; 95% CI 1.25-2.64), low baseline potassium level (aOR 1.79; 95% CI 1.19-2.70), and individual compounding PN (aOR 1.61; 95% CI 1.04-2.51). RFS was common among hospitalized patients receiving PN. The amount of energy delivered on the first day of PN was independently associated with RFS, raising a concern regarding initiation of PN with higher energy.

High Incidence of Refeeding Syndrome during the Transition from F75 to Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Feeds among Children 6 to 59 Months with Severe Acute Malnutrition at the Pediatric Nutritional Unit of Mulago Hospital.

Refeeding syndrome is a complication developed by children being managed for severe acute malnutrition (SAM). It is caused by changes in electrolyte balance once high-caloric feeding is reinitiated. Phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium are the main electrolytes affected when it occurs. However, hypophosphatemia is the hallmark of the diagnosis of refeeding syndrome. WHO recommends inpatient management of patients with complicated SAM with initially F75 which is low in calories and later transitioned to RUTF which is high in calories but also has a higher phosphorus content. This study aims to determine the incidence and factors associated with refeeding syndrome in the transition phase when treating children aged 6 to 59 months with severe acute malnutrition at the Mwanamugimu Nutritional Unit, Mulago. We conducted a prospective cohort study at the Mwanamugimu Nutritional Unit of Mulago National Referral Hospital. A total of 150 children between 6 and 59 months with SAM were enrolled into the study. We measured serum electrolytes (phosphorus, sodium, and potassium) at admission, initiation of RUTF, and 48 hours after transition. The refeeding syndrome was diagnosed by a drop in serum phosphorus of more than 0.3 mmol from baseline. The data were analyzed using STATA 17.0. Incidence of refeeding syndrome was determined as the proportion of participants whose serum phosphorus declined by more than 0.3 mmol from baseline. For factors associated, a multivariate-modified Poisson regression analysis reporting relative risk was performed with a 0.2 level of significance at bivariate and 0.05 at multivariate analyses. Of the 150 children recruited, 35 were lost to follow-up and 115 children had their data analyzed. Of the 115 participants in the study, 40 developed refeeding syndrome indicating a cumulative incidence of 34.8% with a 95% CI of 26.5-44%. A low baseline serum sodium (RR: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.80-0.99, and P value: 0.038) and having edematous malnutrition (RR: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.81-0.99, and P value; 0.042) at admission were found to be significant (P < 0.05) risk factors of refeeding syndrome. The cumulative incidence of RFS of 34.8% is very high. RFS is found to be associated with low baseline sodium and pedal edema. Children with a low baseline sodium and edema should undergo a cautious transition of feeds.

Potentially Lethal But Rarely Considered. Risk of Developing Refeeding Syndrome in Primary Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Presurgical preparation and postoperative care are cornerstones of all surgical procedures. Surgeons should be especially vigilant with malnourished cancer patients. Refeeding syn-drome (RFS) is a serious, potentially fatal complication of initiating appropriate nutrition in malnourished patients or after a period of starvation, although no standard precise definition has been proposed. The rarity of its une-quivocally life-threatening course means that its risk may be underestimated in clinical practice.The study's main goal was to assess the degree of malnutrition and the risk of RFS in the presurgical status of patients with oral cavity cancer and to identify risk factors for the occurrence of RFS.This single-center prospective observational study included patients diagnosed with oral squamous cell carcinoma. We investigated the relationship of RFS with age, BMI, features of the malignant tumor process selected internal medicine comorbidities, inflam-matory markers, renal and hepatic parameters, plasma levels of diverse electrolytes, and microelements were assessed. In the work, we utilized the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) criteria.The study included 90 patients: 35 women and 55 men, aged 64.2±10.5. A robust statistical correlation at a significance level of p < 0.05 was demonstrated between advanced age, lower BMI, lymph node metastases, and a relatively low LDH as positive predictors of the onset of RFS and confirmed the high predictive value of the NRS-2002 scale.This paper seeks to call attention to RFS and identify critical issues that may be useful for its prevention.

S2279 Bisphosphonate-Induced Esophageal Stricture: A Situation of Unusual Severity

Introduction: Pill-induced esophageal stricture is a rare but well-documented condition associated with various causative agents. Potassium chloride and quinine are the most common causes and are more likely to produce stricture than other agents (such as Bisphosphonates and Tetracyclines). Predisposing factors include older age, male gender, sustained release medication formulation and prior esophageal structural abnormality. Case Description/Methods: An 80-year-old female with history of osteoporosis taking Alendronate presented with 3 weeks history of progressive solid and liquid dysphagia and endorsed 20 lbs weight loss. The patient reported inability to keep any food down for 3 days prior to presentation and had begun requiring the use of oral suction at bedside due to inability to swallow her own saliva. She appeared clinically stable on exam. He laboratory study showed profound electrolytes abnormality. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) showed circumferential mid esophageal ulceration that progressed to a narrow stricture that could not be traversed even with a stricture scope (5.9 mm diameter). Alendronate was discontinued and the patient was treated with liquid formulation omeprazole twice daily. Her diet was slowly advanced from clear liquid to mince. Her hospitalization was prolonged because she developed refeeding syndrome after reinitiating her diet. She was discharged after her electrolytes normalized. Two months after her initial presentation, her dysphagia had completely resolved. A repeat EGD revealed a tapered benign-appearing stricture in the distal esophagus, which was traversed without resistance with a standard gastroscope. Balloon dilation was performed to a diameter of 13 mm without creation of a mucosal rent (Figure). Discussion: This case highlights the severity and potential rapid progression of pill-induced esophageal damage caused by Bisphosphonate therapy. Esophagitis or esophageal mucosa ulceration are common. The mucosal damage is caused by direct contact of the drug with the esophageal mucosa. Reports of stricture formation from Alendronate use are rare. Stricture formation may be caused by chronic inflammation from long-term use. Clinicians should have a low index suspicion in a high-risk patient presenting with classic symptoms of dysphagia. In addition, patients should receive counseling on proper pill ingestion technique to prevent potential damage.Figure 1.: See attachment.

The Performances of SNAQ, GLIM, mNICE, and ASPEN for Identification of Neurocritically Ill Patients at High Risk of Developing Refeeding Syndrome.

We previously found that neurocritically ill patients are prone to refeeding syndrome (RFS), a potentially life-threatening complication. However, there is no unified or validated consensus on the screening tool for RFS so far. We aimed to validate and compare the performance of four screening tools for RFS in neurocritically ill patients. We conducted a single-center, observational, retrospective cohort study among neurocritically ill adult patients who were admitted to the neurocritical care unit (NCU), and who received enteral nutrition for 72 h or longer. They were scored on the Short Nutritional Assessment Questionnaire (SNAQ), the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM), the modified criteria of the Britain’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (mNICE), and ASPEN Consensus Recommendations for Refeeding Syndrome (ASPEN) scales to predict RFS risk via admission data. The performance of each scale in predicting RFS was evaluated. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the independent risk factors for RFS, and they were added to the above scales to strengthen the identification of RFS. Of the 478 patients included, 84 (17.57%) developed RFS. The sensitivity of the SNAQ and GLIM was only 20.2% (12.6–30.7%), although they had excellent specificities of 84.8% (80.8–88.1%) and 86.0% (82.1–89.2%), respectively; mNICE predicted RFS with a sensitivity of 48.8% (37.8–59.9%) and a specificity of 65.0% (60.0–69.9%); ASPEN had the highest Youden index, with a sensitivity and specificity of 53.6% (42.4–64.4%) and 64.7% (59.8–69.4%), respectively. The Area Under the receiver operating characteristic Curves (AUC) of SNAQ, GLIM, mNICE, and ASPEN to predict RFS were 0.516 (0.470–0.561), 0.533 (0.487–0.579), 0.568 (0.522–0.613), and 0.597 (0.551–0.641), respectively. We identified age, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II), Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA), and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score as independent risk factors of RFS, and the combination of GCS and age can improve the AUC of ASPEN to 0.664 (0.620–0.706) for predicting RFS. SNAQ, GLIM, mNICE, and ASPEN do not perform well in identifying neurocritically ill patients at high risk of RFS, although ASPEN appears to have relatively a good validity among them. Combining GCS and age with ASPEN slightly improves RFS recognition, but it still leaves a lot of room for improvement.

Outcomes of a Standardized, High-Caloric, Inpatient Re-Alimentation Treatment Protocol in 120 Severely Malnourished Adolescents with Anorexia Nervosa.

Evidence accumulates that, with close medical monitoring and phosphate supplementation, higher-caloric re-alimentation protocols beginning at 2000 kcal/day (HCR) are not associated with an increased incidence of electrolyte abnormalities in patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) but rather result in faster weight gain. These studies are still scant and have largely been performed in adults or moderately malnourished adolescents. Methods: A retrospective chart review of patients with AN aged 12–20 years and with a body mass index (BMI) < 15 kg/m2 alimented according to a standardized treatment protocol in a German clinic specialized in AN was conducted. All patients received 2000 kcal/day from day one. The effect of HCR was examined with respect to laboratory changes and weight development over 4 weeks. Results: In 120 youth (119 (99.2%) females and 1 (0.8%) male, the mean BMI was 13.1 ± 1.1 (range = 10.2–15.0), %mBMI was 62.1 ± 6.0% and weight gain was 0.76 ± 0.22 kg per week, with the highest rate of weight gain during week 1 (1.25 ± 1.28 kg/week). Over 4 weeks, the total weight gain was 3.00 ± 1.92 kg. Nine patients (7.5%) developed mild hypophosphatemia, and none developed refeeding syndrome. Conclusions: Starting re-alimentation with 2000 kcal/d under close medical surveillance, severely malnourished youth with AN met the recommended weight gain targets between 0.5 and 1 kg/week according to current treatment guidelines, without anyone developing refeeding syndrome.

Comparison of a low carbohydrate intake and standard carbohydrate intake on refeeding hypophosphatemia in children and adolescents with anorexia nervosa: a pilot randomised controlled trial

BackgroundNutritional rehabilitation for patients with anorexia nervosa involves balancing the need for weight gain whilst mitigating the risk of refeeding syndrome. Graded caloric increases and restriction of calories from carbohydrate have been used to minimise the risk of developing refeeding hypophosphatemia. There is little evidence to support the recommended nutrient composition, specifically the recommended carbohydrate intake that is safe in this population. The aim of this pilot study was to compare the effect of a low and a standard carbohydrate feeding protocol on serum phosphate levels in children and adolescents with anorexia nervosa.MethodsA pilot study of 23 children and adolescents with anorexia nervosa admitted for medical stabilisation to the adolescent ward of a tertiary hospital was undertaken. Participants were commenced on an oral feeding protocol and were randomly allocated to isocaloric meal plans that were either low carbohydrate (< 40% total energy from carbohydrate) or standard carbohydrate (50–60% total energy from carbohydrate). Serum phosphate levels were monitored daily across the first week and twice weekly thereafter. Clinical status, including weight gain, was monitored throughout admission.Results52% (n = 12) of participants were allocated to the low carbohydrate group and 48% (n = 11) were allocated to the standard carbohydrate group. No patients in either of the diet groups developed refeeding hypophosphatemia in the first seven days of admission. Weight gain during the first week was significantly higher in the standard carbohydrate diet (1.4 kg/wk ± 0.5) compared to the low carbohydrate diet (0.6 kg/wk ± 0.9), p value 0.03. Participants from both diet groups were largely orally fed with less than 10% of the total number of meals and/or snacks across both groups provided as nutrition supplement drinks, either orally or enterally.ConclusionThis pilot study supports that a standard carbohydrate intake (providing 50–60% of total energy from carbohydrate) optimises nutritional rehabilitation without increasing the risk of refeeding hypophosphatemia in adolescent inpatients with anorexia nervosa.CTN: ACTRN12621000300875.Plain English Summary: People with eating disorders who are underweight or malnourished, such as patients with anorexia nervosa, are at risk of refeeding syndrome when they receive treatment and return to regular eating. Refeeding syndrome may cause fluid and electrolyte shifts. This can occur as a result of the reintroduction of carbohydrates, and can have potentially life-threatening consequences if not managed appropriately. Refeeding hypophosphatemia is one of the early markers of refeeding syndrome. This study compared patients who were provided a low carbohydrate diet (40% total energy from carbohydrate) to those who were provided a standard carbohydrate diet (50–60% total energy from carbohydrate) to see if patients from either group were more at risk of developing refeeding syndrome. No patients in either of the diet groups developed refeeding hypophosphatemia. This pilot study may help to ensure that when patients get treated for their eating disorder in hospital, they can return to a normal diet as soon as possible with close medical monitoring.

Refeeding Syndrome and Its Related Factors in Critically Ill Coronavirus Disease 2019 Patients: A Prospective Cohort Study.

Background and AimMalnutrition and its complications is usually neglected in critically ill COVID-19 patients. We conducted the present study to investigate the prevalence of refeeding syndrome and its related factors in this group of patients.MethodsIn this prospective cohort study, 327 patients were assessed for being at risk and developing refeeding syndrome. The criteria was ASPEN consensus recommendations for refeeding syndrome released in 2020. Malnutrition was assessed based on global leadership initiative on malnutrition (GLIM) criteria. The relation between actual protein, calorie intake, and refeeding syndrome was also evaluated via cox regression model. The data concerning calorie and protein intake were gathered for 5 days after initiating feeding. The daily protein and calorie intake were divided by kilogram body weight in order to calculate the actual protein (g/kg/day) and energy (kcal/kg/day) intake.ResultsAmong the subjects, 268 (82%) were at risk of refeeding syndrome and 116 (36%) got involved in this syndrome. Malnutrition, according to the GLIM criteria, was found in 193 (59%) of the subjects. In the at-risk population, the risk of refeeding syndrome was reduced by 90% with the rise in protein intake (CI; 0.021–0.436, P = 0.002), increased by 1.04 times with the increase in age (CI; 1.032–1.067, P < 0.001), and by 1.19 times with the rise in the days from illness onset to admission (CI; 1.081–1.312, P < 0.001) in adjusted cox model analysis.ConclusionThe incidence of refeeding syndrome is relatively high, which threatens the majority of critically ill COVID-19 patients. Increased protein intake was found to reduce the occurrence of refeeding syndrome.

Role of Thiamine in Refeeding Syndrome in Children

Purpose, Setting and Subjects: We conducted a case report study of a postoperative pediatric patient on total parenteral nutrition managed by a multidisciplinary team in a tertiary care hospital. In October 2020, data of nutritional status, hypophosphatemia, electrolyte and metabolic imbalance, and the role of thiamine supplement were reviewed. Background: Refeeding Syndrome is usually defined as the possibly lethal maldistribution of fluids and electrolytes that could take place in malnourished patients receiving enteral or parenteral refeeding. This is due to hormonal and metabolic disturbances that may lead to critical clinical deterioration. The biochemical key feature of Refeeding Syndrome is hypophosphatemia. In general, the syndrome is complicated and may also incorporate abnormal electrolytes and fluid balance; changes in serum level of protein, glucose, and the metabolism of fat; thiamine deficiency; hypokalemia; and hypomagnesaemia. Case Report: an ex-preterm 6-year-old boy who underwent major intestinal resection due to necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) during his stormy neonatal period, presented to ED with constipation for 2 days; the patient was admitted in the pediatric ward under combined care with Pediatric Surgery, as a case of large bowel obstruction for conservative management. He had cachexic appearance, global developmental delay (GDD), and faltering growth. Subsequently and during his PICU stay, he suffered a fluctuating course of electrolytes imbalance a few days after commencing total parenteral nutrition (TPN), and developed altered mental status that responded well to thiamine infusions to resume his baseline sensorium within 48 hours. Conclusions: The role of thiamine in Refeeding Syndrome is extremely underestimated, despite the current evidence of its high efficacy. However, the fussy exclusion mechanism to reach the diagnosis is probably the reason behind the delaying of treatment in most of the cases. A wide range of patients are at risk of developing Refeeding Syndrome, especially malnourished children, as in this case report. Categories: Nutrition, Surgery, Pediatrics, Gastroenterology.

English

Wernicke’s encephalopathy (WE) is an unrecognized nutritional deficiency which often goes unnoticed. WE is clinically often composed of a triad including nystagmus, ophthalmoplegia and altered mental status. Although this triad practically is present only in a handful of cases1 it is also described as an acute neuropsychiatric presentation of thiamine deficiency. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are of utmost importance here as it can prevent chronic brain damage which is often the end effect of thiamine deficiency. Wernicke’s encephalopathy is most commonly found in patients with chronic alcoholism, less frequent in non-alcoholic patients. In non-alcoholic patients, Wernicke’s encephalopathy might develop due to erosion of upper portion of gastrointestinal tract or secondary to intractable vomiting, inadequate dietary intake or malabsorption. Other causes include malignancies (gastric cancer, leukaemia, lymphoma), hyperemesis, anorexia, thyroid conditions.1,2 Wernicke’s encephalopathy is caused due to thiamine (B1) deficiency. B1 is a water-soluble vitamin which acts as a co-factor for carbohydrate metabolism. It is also important for neuronal cell function.2 This vitamin can’t be synthesised in the human body and thus dietary intake play a very important role. Symptoms of thiamine deficiency Include - Nystagmus, ataxia, encephalopathy, mental confusion. Early onset includes symptoms like: - headache, irritability, fatigue and abdominal discomfort. Prophylactic thiamine supplementation forms a major treatment for patients at risk for developing refeeding syndrome (RFS). RFS is an underdiagnosed condition which is characterised by potential shift in the fluid and electrolytes.

Incidence of Refeeding Syndrome in Pediatric Inpatients at the US-Mexico Border.

Refeeding syndrome is a life-threatening, physiological process that occurs when patients with severe malnutrition are too rapidly rehabilitated, leading to the development of electrolyte abnormalities. Hypophosphatemia, a hallmark of the disease, has most commonly been studied, because it is recognized to result in cardiac arrhythmias, seizures, cardiac failure, respiratory failure, rhabdomyolysis, coma, and even death. Although many studies have found caloric intake to be a main causal factor in refeeding syndrome, few have explored other factors, such as geographic location. Border cities, such as El Paso, Texas, have a unique, diverse population. The purpose of this study was to establish the incidence of refeeding syndrome concentrated within a border city. We performed a retrospective chart review that focused on the incidence of refeeding syndrome in pediatric patients with eating disorders, ages 10 to 19 years, admitted to El Paso Children's Hospital, the only tertiary teaching hospital in the area, associated with Texas Tech University Health Science Center, located along the US-Mexico border, in El Paso, Texas. Twenty-six subjects with a diagnosis of eating disorder were admitted to El Paso Children's Hospital for treatment between 2012 and 2019. Five subjects developed refeeding syndrome, recognized in our study as hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia, during their treatment. Among hospitalized adolescents admitted to El Paso Children's Hospital, 19% developed refeeding syndrome. This incidence was higher in our population than had been previously reported. Further research is needed to better establish a protocol for the treatment of patients with eating disorders.

Mortality associated with new risk classification of developing refeeding syndrome in critically ill patients: A cohort study

Although refeeding syndrome (RFS) has been recognized as a potentially fatal metabolic complication, the definition of RFS has remained unclear. Recently, European researchers suggested an evidence-based and consensus-supported algorithm that consisted of a new RFS risk classification and treatment strategies for medical inpatients. The classification was based on the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) criteria for patients at risk of developing RFS. In this study, we aimed to investigate the frequency of each applied new risk group and the association between the new classification and mortality in critically ill patients. This cohort study was conducted at a Japanese metropolitan tertiary-care university hospital from December 2016 to December 2018. We included critically ill adult patients who were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) via the emergency department and who stayed in the ICU for 24h or longer. We applied the new risk classification based on the NICE RFS risk factors on ICU admission. The main exposure was risk classification of RFS: no risk, low risk, high risk, or very high risk. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality censored at day 30 after ICU admission. We performed a multivariable analysis using Cox proportional hazard regression. We analyzed 542 patients who met the eligibility criteria. The prevalence of the four RFS risk classification groups was 25.8% for no risk, 25.7% for low risk, 46.5% for high risk, and 2.0% for very high risk. The 30-day mortality was 5.0%, 7.2%, 16.3%, and 27.3%, respectively (log-rank trend test: p<0.001). In the multivariable Cox regression, adjusted hazard ratios with no risk group as a reference were 1.28 (95% CI 0.48-3.38) for low risk, 2.81 (95% CI 1.24-6.35) for high risk, and 3.17 (95% CI 0.78-12.91) for very high risk. Approximately half the critically ill patients were categorized as high or very high risk based on the new risk classification. Furthermore, as the risk categories progressed, the 30-day in-hospital mortality increased. Early recognition of patients at risk of developing RFS may improve patient outcomes through timely and optimal nutritional treatment.

Hypophosphatemia in Refeeding Syndrome in Intrauterine Growth Restricted IUGR Neonates Who are Receiving Nutrition: A Prospective Observational Study

Objective: Electrolyte dysregulations particularly hypophosphatemia and hypokalemia following feeds in a starved person is known as refeeding syndrome, which may lead to life-threatening conditions like arrhythmias, heart failure, respiratory and neuromuscular compromise. To evaluate electrolyte dyscrasias following enteral or parenteral feeding, among intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) neonates ie those who were starved in-utero, compared to non-IUGR neonates this study was planned.&#x0D; Methodology: From March to August 2015, 60 IUGR and non-IUGR neonates who were admitted at birth before starting of nutrition, either by breast milk or electrolyte-free intravenous fluid. An infant was classified as IUGR when his birth weight was &lt;10th percentile according to Fenton or Lubchenco growth charts. Venous blood was collected from intramural babies at zero hours of life or just before starting feeds to determine the basal level of serum electrolytes – phosphorus, magnesium and potassium, and was repeated in the following 48 and 72 hours.&#x0D; Results: There was no significant difference between the two groups based on sex, history of maternal pre-eclampsia and oligohydramnios. At 72 hours after the start of feeding, Hypophosphatemia was significantly more prevalent, in 33.33% of IUGR vs. 2% of the non-IUGR group, [RR-5, p = 0.010]. Hypokalemia 20% IUGR; 1% non-IUGR group, [RR-6, p = 0.103]. Hypomagnesemia 3% IUGR; 2% non-IUGR group, [RR-1.5, p = 0.640]. Combined electrolyte– hypophosphatemia with hypokalemia (6.6%) and hypophosphatemia with Hypomagnesemia (13.3%), were present only in the IUGR group. Hyperglycemia was not present in any neonate. &#x0D; Conclusions: IUGR neonates are more likely to develop Refeeding syndrome when compared to non-IUGR babies, manifesting as decreased phosphorus, potassium and magnesium levels. Phosphorous should be a part of feeding nutrition in IUGR babies.

Refeeding Syndrome in Surgical Patients. A Clinical Case Analysis

Introduction. Refeeding syndrome is a condition underpinned by metabolic disorders emerging as a result of the resumption of feeding in patients after a protracted period of starvation. The real figures of the potentially life threatening refeeding syndrome incidence are unknown. This paper aims to demonstrate the clinical picture and methods of resolving of the refeeding syndrome by presenting a clinical case.Materials and methods. The clinical presentation of the refeeding syndrome with pronounced neurological and cardiological symptoms is demonstrated on the example of a female patient with acute pancreatitis of medium severity at the resumption of enteral feeding. A review of available literature on the subject is also presented.Results and discussion. The range of diagnostic considerations was rather broad as the authors had to eliminate acute coronary and neurological disorders. The auxiliary laboratory examination methods helped form the hypothesis of a developing refeeding syndrome and correct the treatment. Parenteral phosphate-containing preparations and enteral feeding with phosphates were administered. The patient was transferred to the neurology department for further treatment. The patient was discharged home on day 53 with total regression of neurological symptoms.Conclusion. Hypophosphataemia — a very low level of phosphorus in blood — is a key clinical marker of the syndrome. However, low blood levels of potassium, calcium, magnesium and vitamin В1 may also play a role. Chronically undernourished patients and those not having any enteral feed for over 10 days are fall in the high risk group. The feeding should be resumed at a low level energy intake. Vitamins should be prescribed at the resumption and continued for at least 10 days. The electrolyte and fluid balance does not have to be corrected prior to the resumption of feeding; it can be done simultaneously with feeding.

The Prevalence of Refeeding Syndrome among Children with Severe Acute Malnutrition: An Observational Study in Kenyatta National Hospital, Kenya

Background: Refeeding syndrome is a complication of severe acute malnutrition occurring during initial feeding because of electrolyte changes; mostly potassium, phosphorus and magnesium. The highest mortality in sam is observed between 48-72 hours of initiating feeds, the same time that refeeding syndrome occurs. Objectives: To establish prevalence of refeeding syndrome among children with sam in kenyatta national hospital, find out its associated factors and outcomes. Design: Observational study; Setting: Kenyatta national hospital paediatric wards Study Participants: Children 6-59 months diagnosed with severe acute malnutrition interventions: potassium, phosphorus and magnesium levels were measured at admission and repeated 48 hours after feed initiation. Anthropometric measurements, oedema, dehydration, HIV status, type of feed were evaluated and patients followed for outcomes. Main outcome measures: Recovery, persistence, undetermined, death. Results: Total of 160 children with sam recruited. Prevalence of refeeding syndrome was 21% (95% ci 15.2 to 28.4). refeeding syndrome was significantly associated with HIV (p=0.032). odds of refeeding syndrome increased six-fold with HIV infection (or=5.99, 95% ci 1.23 to 29.1) after age and sex adjustment of the 34 children who developed refeeding syndrome, 65% recovered with treatment, 3% died, 12% had persistently low electrolytes despite treatment while 20% were lost to follow up. Conclusion: Prevalence of refeeding syndrome in kenyatta national hospital among children admitted with sam was 21% with HIV being significantly associated with its development (p=0.032). The outcomes of those who developed refeeding syndrome were recovery (65%), mortality (3%), lost to follow up (20%) and persistence (12%).

Impact of caloric intake in critically ill patients with, and without, refeeding syndrome: A retrospective study

Refeeding syndrome comprises metabolic disturbances that occur after the reintroduction of feeding after prolonged fasting. Standard care consists of correcting fluid and electrolytes imbalances. Energy intake during refeeding syndrome is heavily debated. This study addresses the effect of caloric intake on outcome during the management of refeeding syndrome. A retrospective study among critically ill invasive mechanically ventilated patients admitted for >7 days to a medical-surgical ICU. Refeeding syndrome was diagnosed by the occurrence of new onset hypophosphatemia (<0.65mmol/l) within 72h of the start of nutritional support. Primary outcome was 6-month mortality. Secondary outcomes were 3-month mortality, ICU and hospital length of stay and duration of mechanical ventilation. Outcomes of patients with and without refeeding syndrome were compared and subgroup analysis on energy intake within the refeeding population was performed for the duration of survival. Of 337 enrolled patients, 124 (36.8%) developed refeeding syndrome and 213 patients (63.2%) maintained normal serum phosphate levels. Between the two groups, no statistical significant differences in clinical outcomes were observed. Within the refeeding syndrome group, a reduced 6-month mortality risk for low caloric intake (<50% of target) was seen compared with normal intake, adjusted Hazard Ratio 0.39, (95% CI 0.16-0.95, p=0.037). In this group, low caloric intake was associated with an increased overall survival time at day 180 (153.0 (SE 10.1) vs 119.1 (SE 8.0) days, log-rank p=0.018). Refeeding syndrome is common among prolonged mechanically ventilated critically ill patients, however not predictable by baseline characteristics. Among patients that develop refeeding syndrome low caloric intake was associated with a reduction in 6-month mortality risk. This effect was not seen in patients without refeeding syndrome. Findings support caloric restriction in refeeding syndrome during critical illness.

Incidence of hypophosphatemia in not critically ill patients with enteral feeding

Up to 30-40% of the patients starting artificial nutritional support develop hypophosphatemia. In general, patients with mild and moderate hypophosphatemia do not have symptoms, but severe hypophosphatemia is the hallmark of refeeding syndrome. To determine the incidence of hypophosphatemia in not critically ill patients receiving enteral feeding. Prospective study. We assessed during seven days 181 not critically ill patients started on enteral artificial nutrition support during seven days. 51.9% of the patients were considered to be at risk of developing refeeding syndrome (United Kingdom National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence criteria). The incidence of hypophosphatemia was 31.5%, but only 1.1% of the patients developed severe hypophosphatemia. Older age and lower plasma proteins were significantly associated with hypophosphatemia. The incidence of severe hypophosphatemia in our study is low, so we can't offer robust conclusions about the risk of hypophosphatemia in the type of patients receiving enteral nutrition.