Nutritional rickets in 2 very low birthweight infants with chronic lung disease.

Abstract

Two very low birth weight infants with rickets are described; 1 had a low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 concentration. Similarities in their clinical courses included low birth weights, low Ca intakes, uncertain vitamin D intakes and chronic administration of frusemide and sodium bicarbonate, all potential etiological factors in the development of bone undermineralization. Both infants had a resolution of their chronic lung disease before their treatment for rickets. The more cautious use of frusemide and sodium bicarbonate in infants at risk for rickets is warranted and the need to ensure daily vitamin D supplements is shown.