Rapid Turnover Transport Proteins, Plasma Albumin, and Growth in Low Birth Weight Infants

Abstract

The purpose of this investigation was to establish normative data and to detemine the value of measuring rapid plasma turnover proteins in low birth weight infants during the neonatal period. Forty‐three premature, adequate for gestational age infants were divided in three groups according to their birth weight: group A p < 0.02) for the combined data from all groups and for infants included in group B and C (p < 0.05). No concomitant changes were demonstrated in plasma retinol‐binding protein, albumin, or total proteins. The transient rise in prealbumin plasma concentrations remains unexplained, but may be related to the infant's nutritional status. (Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition 8:367–370, 1984)