Abstract
Plasma selenium (Se), erythrocyte Se, erythrocyte glutathione and total plasma vitamin E were prospectively measured in 19 preterm neonates (< 1780 grams birth weight, < 33 weeks gestation) with severe respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in cord blood at 3 and on average at 37 days of age. Infants received daily oral administration of 25 IU of vitamin E. Patients were radiologically evaluated for bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and divided into 2 groups by this diagnosis, 8 patlents who recovered from RDS (- BPD) and 11 atients who developed BPD (+ BPD). The demographic data profiles and the requirements for supplemental 0, and mechanical ventilation during the first 5 days of life were similar. A biochemical Se deficiency in both groups of infants during the first month of life is reported. No difference was found in plasma Se, erythrocyte Se and total glutathione levels between the 2 groups. Total plasma vitamin E levels were similar in both groups at birth and below the normal values for age. In the +BPD group, plasma vitamin E levels (0.58 mddL) were lower than in -BPD infants (1.29 mg/dL) at 3 days of age, significant (P < 0.05). Oral vitamin E administration failed to increasc serum vitamin E levels at 3 days of age in infants with BPD. Total vitamin E levels in + BPD group increased significantly over time (P < 0.005). but still remained lower than in the - BPD group at time point age 37 days. Findings from this study may sug est a fast utilization of plasma vitamin E that takes place due to Formation of toxic free 0, radicals during oxygen therap; this is more obvious during the acute stage of RDS (first 3 days oflife). We speculate vitamin E deficiency plays a role in the etiology of BPD.