SERUM ZINC CONCENTRATIONS IN GROWING PREMATURE INFANTS

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Abstract
Serial serum Zn concentrations were measured in 31 relatively well, growing premature [human] infants during the first 26 wk of life. Zn concentrations declined progressively from 17.9 .mu.mol (1.17 mg/l) at birth (normal adult value) to 8.9 .mu.mol (0.58 mg/l) at 6 wk of age despite a Zn intake of greater than 13.7 .mu.mol (900 .mu.g)/kg per day after the 2nd wk of life. Serum Zn increased after 16 wk of age to 10.7 .mu.mol/dl (0.7 mg/l). No infant demonstrated clinical signs of Zn deficiency. This data may serve as a reference against which serum Zn concentrations in other premature infants may be compared to help define the deficiency state.