Abstract
Enhanced uptake of intestinal proteases may contribute to neonatal liver disease in patients with αl-antitrypsin (α1-AT) deficiency. Breast milk, because of its antiprotease activity, may influence the expression of liver disease in these patients. To test this hypothesis, we identified 36 patients with α1-AT deficiency (33 PiZZ, 3 PiSZ). Data was obtained on the severity of liver disease and early feeding practices for 29 (21 males, 8 females) using medical records and parental questionnaires. Severe liver disease (esophageal varices or ascites) was assessed in infants breast fed (Brf) exclusively for at least the first month of life and in infants who were bottle fed (Bof) or Bof with supplemental breast feedings. Six of 11 patients with severe liver disease died.
The calculated odds ratio for severe liver disease and dying in Bof infants are 3.6 and 3.2 respectively. Even though p > 0.1 it appears that Bof infants with α1-AT deficiency are at an increased risk of developing severe liver disease or dying as compared to Brf children. Our findings suggest that early feeding practices are a factor in the variability of liver disease in children with α1-AT deficiency.
Log in or create a free account to read this content
Gain free access to this article, as well as selected content from this journal and more on nature.com
or
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Udall, J., Dixon, M., Newman, A. et al. EARLY FEEDING AND LIVER DISEASE IN αl-ANTITRYPSIN DEFICIENCY. Pediatr Res 18 (Suppl 4), 216 (1984). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198404001-00736
Issue date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198404001-00736
