Correlation between serum IGF-1 level and feeding difficulties in preterm infants

Abstract:

Objective To study the correlation between serum insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) level and feeding difficulties in preterm infants. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed on 200 preterm infants born between January 2013 and January 2014. Venous blood samples were obtained within 24 hours after birth to determine the serum level of IGF-1. The correlation between IGF-1 level and feeding difficulties in preterm infants was analyzed by single-factor analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results The serum IGF-1 level in the feeding difficulty group was significantly lower than that in the control group (28±4 ng/mL vs 63±8 ng/mL; P<0.05). Results of multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that high gestational age and birth weight were protective factors for feeding difficulties in preterm infants, whereas asphyxia, delayed initiation of feeding, use of aminophylline, perinatal infection and decreased IGF-1 level were risk factors. Conclusions The level of serum IGF-1 is correlated with feeding difficulties in premature infants. A reduced IGF-1 level increases the risk of feeding difficulties.