Osteopenia - premature infants

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Neonatal rickets; Rickets - premature infants; Brittle bones - premature infants; Weak bones - premature infants

Osteopenia is a decrease in the amount of calcium and phosphorus in the bone. This can cause bones to be weak and brittle, and increases the risk for fractures.

During the last 3 months of pregnancy, large amounts of calcium and phosphorus are transferred from the mother to the baby, so that the baby's bones will grow. If the baby was born prematurely, he or she may not receive the amount of calcium and phosphorus needed to properly form strong bones. Very premature babies lose much more phosphorus in their urine than do babies that are born full term.

Diuretics (“water” drugs such as furosemide or “lasix”) or steroids can also cause low calcium levels.

Vitamin D helps with the body absorb calcium from the intestines and kidneys. If babies do not receive or make enough vitamin D, calcium and phosphorous will not be properly absorbed. A liver problem called cholestasis may cause problems with vitamin D levels.

While in the womb, fetal activity increases during the last 3 months of pregnancy. This activity is thought to be important for bone development. Most very premature infants have limited physical activity, which may also contribute to weak bones.

Review Date: 10/23/2006
Reviewed By: John Goldenring, MD, MPH, JD, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.