Reflection of Iron and Zinc status on Some immunologic functions In Septicemic neonates

Abstract

Zinc and iron are trace elements known to be essential for normal growth and development in human. The metabolic function of them are based largely on their presence as an essential component of many metallo enzymes involved in all aspects of metabolism. Inadequate nutrition of zinc and iron alters immunocompetence in humans and experimental animals. For each of these minerals, deficient status leads to increased susceptibility to infection. (Hoffman R, et al, 1990). Our aim of the work is to study iron and zinc status and their reflection on some immunologic functions in septicemic newborns. The current study was carried out on 80 neonates selected among neonates attending Neonatal Intensive Care Units at Cleopatra and Manshyet El Bakry Hospitals in Cairo from January 1998 to December 1998 with an age range from 1st day of birth to 28lh day after birth. The study group was divided into the following subgroups : 1- 10 full term septicemic neonates. 2- 10 pre-term septicemic neonates. 3- 10 small for date septicemic neonates. 4- 10 septicemic neonates with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). In addition to 10 non septicemic full term neonates and another 10 non septicemic preterm neonates, 10 non septicemic LBW neonates and 10 non septicemic neonates with RDS studied as control groups.