Which factor predisposes to osteopenia of prematurity?

Which factor predisposes to osteopenia of prematurity?

• A. High calcium intake
• B. Prolonged parenteral nutrition
• C. Vitamin D excess
• D. Premature ambulation

Answer: (B)

Bone mineralization relies on an adequate supply of calcium and phosphorus after birth, especially in preterm infants who miss the last weeks of fetal mineral accretion. When parenteral nutrition is used for a prolonged period without sufficient mineral supplementation or without timely progression to enteral feeds, the infant can develop a negative mineral balance, leading to osteopenia of prematurity. The bones become under-mineralized and more lucent on imaging, with a higher risk of fractures. In contrast, higher calcium intake would support mineralization, vitamin D excess isn’t a typical driver of this condition, and premature ambulation isn’t relevant to neonatal bone health. Therefore, prolonged parenteral nutrition is the factor that predisposes to osteopenia of prematurity.

Bone mineralization relies on an adequate supply of calcium and phosphorus after birth, especially in preterm infants who miss the last weeks of fetal mineral accretion. When parenteral nutrition is used for a prolonged period without sufficient mineral supplementation or without timely progression to enteral feeds, the infant can develop a negative mineral balance, leading to osteopenia of prematurity. The bones become under-mineralized and more lucent on imaging, with a higher risk of fractures. In contrast, higher calcium intake would support mineralization, vitamin D excess isn’t a typical driver of this condition, and premature ambulation isn’t relevant to neonatal bone health. Therefore, prolonged parenteral nutrition is the factor that predisposes to osteopenia of prematurity.