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Romijn M, Onland W, van Keulen BJ, Heijboer AC, Rotteveel J, van Kaam AH, Finken MJJ. Glucocorticoid signature of preterm infants developing bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Pediatr Res 2023; 94:1804-1809. [PMID: 37355738 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-023-02690-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic inflammation plays a key role in the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Cortisol is known to dampen inflammation. However, adrenal function following preterm birth is characterized by insufficient cortisol levels for the degree of inflammation, and a relative abundancy of cortisol precursors. We investigated whether this pattern could contribute to the development of BPD in preterm infants born <30 weeks of gestation. METHODS Cortisol, cortisone, 17-OH progesterone (17-OHP) and 11-deoxycortisol were measured in serum obtained at postnatal days 1, 3, 7, 14 and 28, using liquid-chromatography-tandem-mass-spectrometry. The presence of BPD was ascertained at 36 weeks postmenstrual age. RESULTS Sixty-five infants were included for analysis, of whom 32 (49%) developed BPD. Preterm infants developing BPD, as compared to those without BPD, had higher levels of 17-OHP, 11-deoxycortisol and cortisone relative to cortisol in their first week of life, but not at birth or beyond day 7. CONCLUSION Preterm infants developing BPD had higher levels of cortisol precursors and cortisone relative to cortisol in their first week of life than infants without BPD. These findings suggest that BPD is preceded by an activated hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis that could not meet the high cortisol demands, which may predispose to inflammation and BPD. IMPACT Relative adrenal insufficiency is common in the first weeks after preterm birth, resulting in insufficient cortisol production for the degree of inflammation and a relative abundance of cortisol precursors; Whether this pattern contributes to the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is not fully elucidated, since most studies focused on cortisol levels; Preterm infants developing BPD had higher levels of cortisol precursors and cortisone relative to cortisol in the first week of life, suggestive of a hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal-axis activation during BPD development which cannot meet the high cortisol demands in tissues; This glucocorticoid pattern is likely to dispose to inflammation and BPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Romijn
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Boelelaan, 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Neonatology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Wes Onland
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Neonatology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Britt J van Keulen
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Boelelaan, 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annemieke C Heijboer
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam and location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Endocrine Laboratory, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joost Rotteveel
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Boelelaan, 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anton H van Kaam
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Neonatology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martijn J J Finken
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Boelelaan, 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Adrenal function links to early postnatal growth and blood pressure at age 6 in children born extremely preterm. Pediatr Res 2019; 86:339-347. [PMID: 30631138 PMCID: PMC6561840 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-018-0243-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low birth weight in term-born individuals correlates with adverse cardiometabolic outcomes; excess glucocorticoid exposure has been linked to these relationships. We hypothesized that cortisol and adrenal androgens would correlate inversely with birthweight and directly with markers of cardiometabolic risk in school-aged children born extremely preterm; further, preterm-born would have increased cortisol and adrenal androgens compared to term-born children. METHODS Saliva samples were obtained at age 6 from 219 preterm-born children followed since birth and 40 term-born children and analyzed for dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and cortisol. Cortisol was also measured at home (awakening, 30' later, evening). RESULTS For preterm-born children, cortisol and DHEA correlated inversely with weight and length Z-scores at 36 weeks PMA and positively with systolic BP. DHEA was higher in preterm-born than term-born children (boys p < 0.01; girls p = 0.04). Cortisol was similar between preterm-born and term-born at study visit; however, preterm-born children showed a blunted morning cortisol. In term-born children, DHEA correlated with BMI (p = 0.04), subscapular, and abdominal skinfold thicknesses (both p < 0.01). CONCLUSION Cortisol and DHEA correlated inversely with early postnatal growth and directly with systolic BP in extremely preterm-born children, suggesting perinatal programming. Blunted morning cortisol may reflect NICU stress, as seen after other adverse childhood experiences (ACEs).
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Jang JH, Shin J, Jung YH, Choi CW, Kim BI. Clinical Features of Late-Onset Circulatory Collapse in Preterm Infants. NEONATAL MEDICINE 2019. [DOI: 10.5385/nm.2019.26.3.128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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Plasma cortisol and ACTH levels in 416 VLBW preterm infants during the first month of life: distribution in the AGA/SGA population. J Perinatol 2019; 39:934-940. [PMID: 31068663 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-019-0381-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2018] [Revised: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to establish the serum level distribution of cortisol and ACTH in VLBW preterm newborns and determine which neonates are ideal candidates for the stimulation test for adrenal insufficiency. METHODS Plasma cortisol and ACTH levels were evaluated in 416 VLBW newborns on days 1, 7, and 30 of life. Gender, gestational age, weight, type of delivery, RDS prophylaxis, and perinatal morbidities were considered as potential variability factors. RESULTS Cortisol and ACTH levels significantly decreased between 1, 7, and 30 days. Significantly higher cortisol levels were found at lower gestational ages and in infants born by vaginal delivery, whereas lower levels were observed in those born after maternal corticosteroid treatment. The distribution of cortisol and ACTH levels in healthy infants born by cesarian section is presented. CONCLUSION Even if high or low levels were not frequently linked to illness, the presented distribution data may indicate that the newborns are ideal candidates for the stimulation test.
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Effect of Prophylaxis for Early Adrenal Insufficiency Using Low-Dose Hydrocortisone in Very Preterm Infants: An Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis. J Pediatr 2019; 207:136-142.e5. [PMID: 30416014 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2018.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Revised: 10/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the effect of prophylaxis for early adrenal insufficiency using low-dose hydrocortisone on survival without bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in very preterm infants using an individual patient data meta-analysis. STUDY DESIGN All existing randomized controlled trials testing the efficacy of the prophylaxis of early adrenal insufficiency using low-dose hydrocortisone on survival without BPD were considered for inclusion when data were available. The primary outcome was the binary variable survival without BPD at 36 weeks of postmenstrual age. RESULTS Among 5 eligible studies, 4 randomized controlled trials had individual patient data available (96% of participants identified; n = 982). Early low-dose hydrocortisone treatment for 10-15 days was associated with a significant increase in survival without BPD (OR, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.11-1.90; P = .007; I2 = 0%), as well as with decreases in medical treatment for patent ductus arteriosus (OR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.56-0.93; P = .01; I2 = 0%) and death before discharge (OR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.51-0.97; P = .03; I2 = 0%). The therapy was associated with an increased risk of spontaneous gastrointestinal perforation (OR, 2.50; 95% CI, 1.33-4.69; P = .004; I2 = 31.9%) when hydrocortisone was given in association with indomethacin exposure. The incidence of late-onset sepsis was increased in infants exposed to hydrocortisone (OR, 1.34; 95% CI, 1.02-1.75; P = .04; I2 = 0%), but no adverse effects were reported for either death or 2-year neurodevelopmental outcomes as assessed in an aggregate meta-analysis. CONCLUSIONS This individual patient data meta-analysis showed that early low-dose hydrocortisone therapy is beneficial for survival without BPD in very preterm infants.
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Efficacy and safety of systemic hydrocortisone for the prevention of bronchopulmonary dysplasia in preterm infants: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Pediatr 2019; 178:1171-1184. [PMID: 31144162 PMCID: PMC6647381 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-019-03398-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 04/14/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Early lung inflammation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). We aimed to establish the efficacy and safety of systemic hydrocortisone for the prevention of BPD. A systematic review and meta-analysis were undertaken, with a detailed electronic literature search. Trials involving preterm infants were included if they were randomised to receive systemic hydrocortisone or a placebo. The primary outcome was the composite of survival without BPD at 36-week postmenstrual age (PMA). Results are presented as relative risk (RR) or risk difference (RD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), along with numbers needed to treat (NNT) or harm (NNH). After filtering, 12 studies using early (within 1 week of birth) and two using late hydrocortisone were identified. Early systemic hydrocortisone significantly increased the chances of survival without BPD (RR 1.13, 95% CI [1.01, 1.26], NNT 18), and survival without moderate-to-severe neurodevelopmental impairment (1.13 [1.02, 1.26], NNT 14). Infants who received hydrocortisone had a higher risk of intestinal perforation (1.69 [1.07, 2.68], NNH 30), primarily with concurrent treatment for patent ductus arteriosus.Conclusion: Early systemic hydrocortisone is a modestly effective therapy for the prevention of BPD in preterm infants, although some safety concerns remain. No conclusions could be drawn for late hydrocortisone due to the paucity of studies. What is Known: • Preterm infants are at high risk of developing bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and early lung inflammation plays a significant role in its pathogenesis. • Both early and late systemic dexamethasone seems to reduce the incidence of BPD, but its use is associated with serious neurodevelopmental impairment at follow-up. What is New: • Early systemic hydrocortisone significantly improved survival without BPD at 36 weeks and survival without moderate to severe neurodevelopmental impairment on follow up. • Incidence of gastrointestinal perforation associated with concurrent treatment for PDA was significantly higher, although early systemic hydrocortisone reduced the need for treatment of PDAs.
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Association between plasma cortisol and death or vasopressor refractory hypotension in preterm neonates: a prospective, cohort study. J Perinatol 2018; 38:672-680. [PMID: 29426854 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-018-0059-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2017] [Revised: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Temporal relation between adrenal insufficiency and hypotension is poorly understood. We examined the association between basal and post-stimulation cortisol and death or vasopressor refractory hypotension in preterm neonates. STUDY DESIGN Prospective cohort study in ≤30 weeks' and/or <1,250 g weight. Primary outcome-composite of death or vasopressor refractory hypotension by day 14 of life. Plasma cortisol levels were measured at 24-36 h (T1), 72-84 h (T2) and 10 days (T3), and post-stimulation cortisol at T1 and later at T2 and T3 if the adrenal response was inadequate earlier. RESULTS Basal cortisol (µg/dl) at 24-36 h was significantly higher in the outcome group (37.2 ± 21.1 vs. 22.04 ± 14.6; mean difference (MD) (95% confidence interval (CI)): -15.1 (-23.6, -6.6); p = 0.005). High basal cortisol at 24-36 h (odds ratio (OR) (95% CI): 1.044 (1.009, 1.079); p = 0.01) and need for ventilation (OR (95% CI): 9.7 (1.2, 81.2); p = 0.04) independently increased the risk of death or vasopressor refractory hypotension. CONCLUSION Preterm neonates who died or developed vasopressor refractory hypotension by day 14 had significantly elevated basal cortisol at 24-36 h of life.
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Khashana A, Ahmed E. Hyperdehydroepiandrosterone in neonates with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy and circulatory collapse. Pediatr Neonatol 2017; 58:504-508. [PMID: 28462900 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedneo.2016.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2016] [Revised: 04/21/2016] [Accepted: 09/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Circulatory collapse is a very common complication of the critical illnesses in neonates including neonates with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy; it can be the end result and cause of death of several conditions. Often, despite treatment with fluid resuscitation and vasopressor agents, circulatory collapse persist, and blood pressure can remain critically low, compromising adequate blood flow to vital organs and brain. Low blood pressure has been associated with increased mortality. METHOD To investigate adrenal function in newborn infants who suffer from circulatory collapse during hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy. A total of 30 infants were analyzed in the study: 15 neonates in group A (neonates had hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy with vasopressor resistant hypotension) and 15 neonates in group B (neonates with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy without vasopressor resistant hypotension). All the studied patients were subjected to history, examinations and laboratory investigation including serum cortisol concentrations and cortisol precursor's levels. RESULTS The cortisol concentrations did not differ significantly between the two groups: (12.9 ± 4.3) μg/dL and (12.1 ± 2.4) μg/dL in group A and group B, respectively. There are highly significant differences between groups A and B regarding Dehydroepiandrosterone (342.1 ± 101.3) μg/dL, (33.4 ± 16.5) μg/dL, respectively. CONCLUSION In this study, we noticed that cortisol concentrations did not differ between both groups in contrast to the expectation that neonates with critical illnesses should have higher cortisol concentrations than normal neonates. However, the marked increase in dehydroepiandrosterone DHEA may cause decrease cortisol function, so those neonates having accumulation of dehydroepiandrosterone may suffer from manifestation of adrenal insufficiency and vasopressor resistant hypotension in spite of normal cortisol level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelmoneim Khashana
- PEDEGO Research Center, Medical Research Center Oulu, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland; Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Suez Canal University Hospital, Ismailia, Egypt.
| | - Engy Ahmed
- Epidemiology and Statistics, Health authority, Ismailia, Egypt
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Khashana A, Ahmed H, Ahmed A, Abdelwahab A, Saarela T, Rämet M, Hallman M. Cortisol precursors in neonates with vasopressor-resistant hypotension in relationship to demographic characteristics. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2017. [PMID: 28629239 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2017.1344966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To correlate between cortisol precursors in neonates with vasopressor resistant hypotension and demographic characteristics. METHODS We investigated 48 neonates with vasopressor-resistant hypotension. Gestation at birth ranged from 34 to 42 weeks and postnatal age from 4 to 14 days. Cortisol and precursor steroids were measured soon after the onset of volume expansion and inotropes for treatment of shock. Their concentrations were determined using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. RESULTS In neonates with vasopressor-resistant hypotension, the serum levels of cortisol were within normal nonstress range. There was a strong negative linear association between postnatal age and dehydroepiandrosterone level (r = -0.50, p < .01), which decreased with neonatal age. In addition, there was a significant positive association between gestational age at birth and 17-hydroxy-pregnenolone (r = 0.33, p = .02). No further significant associations were evident between the neonatal weight, duration of gestation or gender and of the levels of cortisol or the other steroids (p > .05). The cause of therapy-resistant hypotension did not appear to influence the steroid levels. CONCLUSIONS Cortisol stress response is absent in these severely ill late preterm and term infants. This may be due to inhibition of the distal pathway of cortisol synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelmoneim Khashana
- a Medical Research Center Oulu, PEDEGO Research Unit, University of Oulu , Oulu , Finland.,b Department of Children and Adolescents , Oulu University Hospital , Oulu , Finland.,c Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology , Suez Canal University Hospital , Ismailia , Egypt
| | - Hoda Ahmed
- c Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology , Suez Canal University Hospital , Ismailia , Egypt
| | - Amal Ahmed
- d Department of Clinical Pathology , Suez Canal University Hospital , Ismailia , Egypt
| | - Amina Abdelwahab
- c Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology , Suez Canal University Hospital , Ismailia , Egypt
| | - Timo Saarela
- a Medical Research Center Oulu, PEDEGO Research Unit, University of Oulu , Oulu , Finland.,b Department of Children and Adolescents , Oulu University Hospital , Oulu , Finland
| | - Mika Rämet
- a Medical Research Center Oulu, PEDEGO Research Unit, University of Oulu , Oulu , Finland.,b Department of Children and Adolescents , Oulu University Hospital , Oulu , Finland
| | - Mikko Hallman
- a Medical Research Center Oulu, PEDEGO Research Unit, University of Oulu , Oulu , Finland.,b Department of Children and Adolescents , Oulu University Hospital , Oulu , Finland
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Khashana A, Saarela T, Ramet M, Hallman M. Cortisol intermediates and hydrocortisone responsiveness in critical neonatal disease. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2016; 30:1721-1725. [DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2016.1223032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Abdelmoneim Khashana
- PEDEGO Research Center, and Medical Research Center Oulu, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland,
- Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Suez Canal University Hospital, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Timo Saarela
- PEDEGO Research Center, and Medical Research Center Oulu, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland,
- Department of Children and Adolescents, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland, and
| | - Mika Ramet
- PEDEGO Research Center, and Medical Research Center Oulu, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland,
- Department of Children and Adolescents, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland, and
| | - Mikko Hallman
- PEDEGO Research Center, and Medical Research Center Oulu, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland,
- Department of Children and Adolescents, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland, and
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Watterberg KL. Hydrocortisone Dosing for Hypotension in Newborn Infants: Less Is More. J Pediatr 2016; 174:23-26.e1. [PMID: 27156187 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2016.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2016] [Revised: 03/04/2016] [Accepted: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kristi L Watterberg
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM.
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Baud O, Maury L, Lebail F, Ramful D, El Moussawi F, Nicaise C, Zupan-Simunek V, Coursol A, Beuchée A, Bolot P, Andrini P, Mohamed D, Alberti C. Effect of early low-dose hydrocortisone on survival without bronchopulmonary dysplasia in extremely preterm infants (PREMILOC): a double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicentre, randomised trial. Lancet 2016; 387:1827-36. [PMID: 26916176 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(16)00202-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 216] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bronchopulmonary dysplasia, a major complication of extreme prematurity, has few treatment options. Postnatal steroid use is controversial, but low-dose hydrocortisone might prevent the harmful effects of inflammation on the developing lung. In this study, we aimed to assess whether low-dose hydrocortisone improved survival without bronchopulmonary dysplasia in extremely preterm infants. METHODS In this double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised trial done at 21 French tertiary-care neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), we randomly assigned (1:1), via a secure study website, extremely preterm infants inborn (born in a maternity ward at the same site as the NICU) at less than 28 weeks of gestation to receive either intravenous low-dose hydrocortisone or placebo during the first 10 postnatal days. Infants randomly assigned to the hydrocortisone group received 1 mg/kg of hydrocortisone hemisuccinate per day divided into two doses per day for 7 days, followed by one dose of 0·5 mg/kg per day for 3 days. Randomisation was stratified by gestational age and all infants were enrolled by 24 h after birth. Study investigators, parents, and patients were masked to treatment allocation. The primary outcome was survival without bronchopulmonary dysplasia at 36 weeks of postmenstrual age. We used a sequential analytical design, based on intention to treat, to avoid prolonging the trial after either efficacy or futility had been established. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrial.gov, number NCT00623740. FINDINGS 1072 neonates were screened between May 25, 2008, and Jan 31, 2014, of which 523 were randomly assigned (256 hydrocortisone, 267 placebo). 255 infants on hydrocortisone and 266 on placebo were included in analyses after parents withdrew consent for one child in each group. Of the 255 infants assigned to hydrocortisone, 153 (60%) survived without bronchopulmonary dysplasia, compared with 136 (51%) of 266 infants assigned to placebo (odds ratio [OR] adjusted for gestational age group and interim analyses 1·48, 95% CI 1·02-2·16, p=0·04). The number of patients needed to treat to gain one bronchopulmonary dysplasia-free survival was 12 (95% CI 6-200). Sepsis rate was not significantly different in the study population as a whole, but subgroup analyses showed a higher rate only in infants born at 24-25 weeks gestational age who were treated with hydrocortisone (30 [40%] of 83 vs 21 [23%] of 90 infants; sub-hazard ratio 1·87, 95% CI 1·09-3·21, p=0·02). Other potential adverse events, including notably gastrointestinal perforation, did not differ significantly between groups. INTERPRETATION In extremely preterm infants, the rate of survival without bronchopulmonary dysplasia at 36 weeks of postmenstrual age was significantly increased by prophylactic low-dose hydrocortisone. This strategy, based on a physiological rationale, could lead to substantial improvements in the management of the most premature neonates. FUNDING Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Baud
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Robert Debré, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1141, Paris, France.
| | - Laure Maury
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Robert Debré, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM U1141, Paris, France
| | - Florence Lebail
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Centre Hospitalier Corbeil-Essonnes, Sud Francilien, France
| | - Duksha Ramful
- Neonatal and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, CHR Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France
| | - Fatima El Moussawi
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Centre Hospitalier Intercommunal de Poissy, Poissy, France
| | - Claire Nicaise
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Hôpital Nord, Marseille, France
| | - Véronique Zupan-Simunek
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Antoine Béclère, Paris, France
| | - Anne Coursol
- Neonatal intensive care unit, Centre Hospitalier de Pontoise, France
| | - Alain Beuchée
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Rennes, France
| | - Pascal Bolot
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Centre Hospitalier de Saint-Denis, France
| | - Pierre Andrini
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Grenoble, France
| | - Damir Mohamed
- Unit of Clinical Epidemiology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Robert Debré, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris-Cité, INSERM U1123 and CIC-EC 1426, Paris, France
| | - Corinne Alberti
- Unit of Clinical Epidemiology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Robert Debré, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris-Cité, INSERM U1123 and CIC-EC 1426, Paris, France
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Khashana A, Ojaniemi M, Leskinen M, Saarela T, Hallman M. Term neonates with infection and shock display high cortisol precursors despite low levels of normal cortisol. Acta Paediatr 2016; 105:154-8. [PMID: 26537554 DOI: 10.1111/apa.13257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Revised: 09/01/2015] [Accepted: 10/29/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
AIM Neonatal therapy-resistant septic shock is a common problem in middle and low-income countries. We investigated whether newborn infants with infection and therapy-resistant hypotension showed evidence of abnormal levels of cortisol or cortisol precursors. METHODS A total of 60 term or near term neonates with evidence of infection were enrolled after informed consent. Of these, 30 had an infection and refractory shock and 30 had an infection without shock. There were no detectable differences between the groups in the length of gestation, birth weight or gender distribution. Serum was obtained during days four and 14 after birth. Cortisol and cortisol precursor concentrations were analysed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. RESULTS The cortisol concentrations were low considering the expected responses to stress and they did not differ between the groups. The infants with infection and shock had higher serum dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) levels than those without shock (319.0 ± 110.3 μg/dL, versus 22.3 ± 18.3 μg/dL; p < 0.0001) and they also had higher 17-hydroxy-pregnenolone, pregnenolone and progesterone concentrations. There were no detectable differences in the levels of 17-hydroxy-progesterone, 11-deoxy-cortisol, cortisol or cortisone. CONCLUSION Septic newborn infants with therapy-resistant hypotension had very high DHEA levels, suggesting that 3-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity limited the rate of cortisol synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelmoneim Khashana
- PEDEGO Research Center and Medical Research Center Oulu; University of Oulu; Oulu Finland
- Department of Paediatrics and Neonatology; Suez Canal University Hospital; Ismailia Egypt
| | - Marja Ojaniemi
- PEDEGO Research Center and Medical Research Center Oulu; University of Oulu; Oulu Finland
- Department of Children and Adolescents; Oulu University Hospital; Oulu Finland
| | - Markku Leskinen
- Department of Children and Adolescents; Oulu University Hospital; Oulu Finland
| | - Timo Saarela
- Department of Children and Adolescents; Oulu University Hospital; Oulu Finland
| | - Mikko Hallman
- PEDEGO Research Center and Medical Research Center Oulu; University of Oulu; Oulu Finland
- Department of Children and Adolescents; Oulu University Hospital; Oulu Finland
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14
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Clyman RI, Wickremasinghe A, Merritt TA, Solomon T, McNamara P, Jain A, Singh J, Chu A, Noori S, Sekar K, Lavoie PM, Attridge JT, Swanson JR, Gillam-Krakauer M, Reese J, DeMauro S, Poindexter B, Aucott S, Satpute M, Fernandez E, Auchus RJ. Hypotension following patent ductus arteriosus ligation: the role of adrenal hormones. J Pediatr 2014; 164:1449-55.e1. [PMID: 24636853 PMCID: PMC4035426 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2014.01.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2013] [Revised: 12/16/2013] [Accepted: 01/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To test the hypothesis that an impaired adrenal response to stress might play a role in the hypotension that follows patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) ligation. STUDY DESIGN We performed a multicenter study of infants born at <32 weeks' gestation who were about to undergo PDA ligation. Serum adrenal steroids were measured 3 times: before and after a cosyntropin (1.0 μg/kg) stimulation test (performed before the ligation), and at 10-12 hours after the ligation. A standardized approach for diagnosis and treatment of postoperative hypotension was followed at each site. A modified inotrope score (1 × dopamine [μg/kg/min] + 1 × dobutamine) was used to monitor the catecholamine support an infant received. Infants were considered to have catecholamine-resistant hypotension if their greatest inotrope score was >15. RESULTS Of 95 infants enrolled, 43 (45%) developed hypotension and 14 (15%) developed catecholamine-resistant hypotension. Low postoperative cortisol levels were not associated with the overall incidence of hypotension after ligation. However, low cortisol levels were associated with the refractoriness of the hypotension to catecholamine treatment. In a multivariate analysis: the OR for developing catecholamine-resistant hypotension was OR 36.6, 95% CI 2.8-476, P = .006. Low cortisol levels (in infants with catecholamine-resistant hypotension) were not attributable to adrenal immaturity or impairment; their cortisol precursor concentrations were either low or unchanged, and their response to cosyntropin was similar to infants without catecholamine-resistant hypotension. CONCLUSION Infants with low cortisol concentrations after PDA ligation are likely to develop postoperative catecholamine-resistant hypotension. We speculate that decreased adrenal stimulation, rather than an impaired adrenal response to stimulation, may account for the decreased production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald I. Clyman
- Departments of Pediatrics and 1Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California San Francisco
| | - Andrea Wickremasinghe
- Departments of Pediatrics and 1Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California San Francisco
| | | | - Tabitha Solomon
- Department of Pediatrics, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA
| | - Patrick McNamara
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Amish Jain
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jaideep Singh
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Alison Chu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Shahab Noori
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK
| | | | - Pascal M. Lavoie
- Department of Pediatrics, Children’s & Women’s Health Centre of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Jeff Reese
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN
| | - Sara DeMauro
- Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | | | - Sue Aucott
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Monique Satpute
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Erika Fernandez
- Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM
| | - Richard J. Auchus
- Department of Pediatrics, Department of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
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15
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Abstract
Evaluation of suspected endocrine pathology in newborn infants requires knowledge of the dynamic changes that characterize normal hormonal function in the neonatal period. This article reviews normal endocrine physiology as it pertains to common clinical scenarios encountered in neonatal surgical patients. Topics covered include thyroid and adrenal function as well as glucose and calcium metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ari J Wassner
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Biren P Modi
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.
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16
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To measure the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol (F) cord plasma levels in preterm and term infants in relation to their mode of delivery. STUDY DESIGN We studied 180 newborns appropriate for gestational age (GA) with birth weights between 365 and 4380 g and GAs between 21 and 41 weeks divided into three groups: born by vaginal delivery (VD), elective cesarean section (ECS) and emergency cesarean section (EMCS). ACTH and F levels were valued with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay testing. Median concentrations were compared between groups by Student's T-test for independent and paired data. Multiple regression analysis was used to investigate the effect of GA on F and ACTH concentrations. RESULT A significant positive correlation between GA and plasma concentrations of ACTH (P<0.05) was found in the whole population, but not between GA and F (P=NS). A significant positive correlation was found between GA and plasma concentrations of both ACTH (P=0.01) and F (P=0.03) in VD. In those born by ECS, we demonstrated a positive correlation not only between plasma concentrations of ACTH (P=0.0000) and F (P=0.00002), respectively, with GA, but also a correlation between ACTH and F (P=0.0004). No significant correlations were found in the EMCS group (P=NS). CONCLUSION Our results suggest simultaneous pituitary-adrenal maturation, which is complete only at term. The responsiveness of preterm babies to different stressful stimulations is similar to the terms' but quantitatively lower, and the secretion of ACTH and F may not suffice in severe pathological circumstances.
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17
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Niwa F, Kawai M, Kanazawa H, Iwanaga K, Matsukura T, Shibata M, Hasegawa T, Heike T. Limited response to CRH stimulation tests at 2 weeks of age in preterm infants born at less than 30 weeks of gestational age. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2013; 78:724-9. [PMID: 23009353 DOI: 10.1111/cen.12049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2012] [Revised: 09/02/2012] [Accepted: 09/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The high incidence of glucocorticoid-responsive complications in extremely preterm infants suggests the immaturity of their adrenal function; however, knowledge of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in extremely preterm infants is limited. METHODS To clarify the characteristics of the HPA axis in preterm very low birthweight (VLBW) infants, we performed CRH tests repeatedly: at about 2 weeks of age and at term (37-41 weeks of postmenstrual age) for 21 VLBW infants with a gestational age (GA) <30 weeks at birth. RESULTS Basal cortisol values at 2 weeks of age were significantly higher than those at term in VLBW infants < 30 weeks of gestation at birth (304·1 ± 146·3 nmol/l vs 184·7 ± 108·2 nmol/l). Response to corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) stimulation tests at 2 weeks of age was significantly lower than at term (delta cortisol 148·3 ± 90·7 nmol/l vs 271·8 ± 167·0 nmol/l, delta ACTH 3·9 ± 3·2 pmol/l vs 12·3 ± 9·2 pmol/l, respectively). We found that earlier GA contributed to the higher basal cortisol values, and antenatal glucocorticoid (AG) contributed to the lower response of cortisol to CRH tests at 2 weeks of age. CONCLUSIONS VLBW infants showed a characteristic pattern in the HPA axis at 2 weeks of age: higher basal cortisol values and lower response to CRH tests. This study suggested that AG was related to the lower response to CRH tests, at least partly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fusako Niwa
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.
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18
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EL-Khuffash A, McNamara PJ, Lapointe A, Jain A. Adrenal function in preterm infants undergoing patent ductus arteriosus ligation. Neonatology 2013; 104:28-33. [PMID: 23635520 DOI: 10.1159/000350017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2012] [Accepted: 02/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Targeted milrinone treatment for low left ventricular output (LVO) reduces the incidence of acute cardiorespiratory instability following ligation of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in preterm infants. Despite this, some infants continue to experience postoperative deterioration. Adrenal insufficiency related to prematurity has been postulated as a possible mechanism. OBJECTIVES To describe adrenal function in premature infants undergoing PDA ligation and to investigate its association with pre- and postoperative clinical and echocardiography-derived indices of disease severity. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was conducted over a 2-year period on infants who underwent PDA ligation and had preoperative adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation. All infants were screened by echocardiography for low LVO at 1 h after surgery and treated with intravenous milrinone if LVO <200 ml/kg/min. The primary outcome evaluated was low LVO at 1 h after surgery. Secondary outcomes included hypotension and oxygenation and ventilation failure occurring within 24 h. RESULTS A total of 35 infants at a median gestation of 25.4 (24.5-26.4) weeks and weight at birth of 700 (600-810) g were included. Baseline median cortisol measured preoperatively was 202 (137-403) nmol/l. Following the ACTH stimulation test, 3 infants had cortisol ≤500 nmol/l while 15 had ≤750 nmol/l. There was no association seen between any cortisol value and low LVO postoperatively. Post-ACTH cortisol ≤750 nmol/l was significantly associated with hypotension (p = 0.03) and oxygenation (p = 0.04) and ventilation (p = 0.008) failure. Receiver-operator characteristic curve showed a high predictive value of post-ACTH cortisol for all clinical outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Post-ACTH cortisol (≤750 nmol/l) may be associated with clinical indices of postoperative cardiorespiratory instability. Relative adrenal insufficiency may play a role in the etiology of post-PDA ligation hemodynamic and respiratory instability.
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19
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The use of an early ACTH test to identify hypoadrenalism-related hypotension in low birth weight infants. J Perinatol 2012; 32:412-7. [PMID: 22402482 DOI: 10.1038/jp.2012.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate if in preterm newborns, an early adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH) test can identify possible transient adrenal insufficiency (TAI), using significant hypotension as a clinical marker. STUDY DESIGN We studied 40 premature newborns born 24 to 29 weeks gestational age (GA) before 8 h of life. Serum cortisol levels were obtained before and 40 min after administration of 1.0 mcg kg(-1) cosyntropin. Inotropes were used to treat hypotension based on clinical assessment following no response to fluid boluses. Functional echocardiogram was used to support the clinical diagnosis of hypotension. The accuracy of the ACTH test was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. RESULT Study patients had mean GA of 26.6 weeks and birth weight of 876 g. In all, 30% required inotropes. The area under the ROC curve for the ACTH test was 87%. Using a cutoff of an increase in cortisol below 12% from baseline had 75% sensitivity and 93% specificity for detecting hypotension. This cutoff was associated with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (8/12 vs 7/28, 95% CI: 0.1 to 0.72), but not with other morbidities or death. CONCLUSION An early ACTH test using the above cutoff has high specificity for detecting hypotension, and thus, can serve as a marker for potential TAI in preterm newborns. Future studies should focus on identifying those newborns for which steroid supplementation would be most beneficial.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To measure cortisol, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-stimulated cortisol and ACTH values in the newborn intensive care unit-admitted newborn infants within 48 h before surgery and to describe the relationship of these values to measures of clinical illness before and after surgery. STUDY DESIGN In this prospective observational study, we measured baseline and ACTH-stimulated cortisol concentrations within 48 h before surgery in newborn infants <44 weeks postmenstrual age and examined the relationship of these values to measures of illness severity both before and after surgery, including the score for neonatal acute physiology (SNAP) and use of vasopressors. ACTH concentrations were measured in a subset of the infants. RESULT Twenty-five infants were enrolled and had median (25th to 75th percentile) baseline and ACTH-stimulated cortisol values of 7.1 (3.5 to 11.1) and 40.4 mcg per 100 ml (22.6 to 50.6). Preterm infants had significantly lower ACTH-stimulated cortisol values (median 21.6 vs 44.7 mcg per 100 ml). There was no correlation between any of these values and either the presurgical or postsurgical measures of illness severity, nor the increase in SNAP after surgery. Infants receiving vasopressors perioperatively had lower median ACTH-stimulated cortisol values (22.6 vs 44.7 mcg per 100 ml). CONCLUSION Presurgical cortisol values do not predict clinical response to surgical stress as measured by severity of illness scores but lower values were associated with vasopressor therapy. Further investigation would be required to determine how cortisol values are related to outcome and whether perioperative glucocorticoid supplementation would be beneficial in this population.
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21
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Relative adrenal insufficiency is a controversial phenomenon described in adults and children with critical illness, especially septic shock. In the past 2 decades, relative adrenal insufficiency has also been reported in the critically ill premature as well as term newborn. The present study will review the initial and more recent studies addressing adrenal insufficiency in the premature infant. RECENT FINDINGS Studies suggest that 'relative adrenal insufficiency' is a contributing factor to hemodynamic instability in the sick preterm newborn. Many ill preterm newborns have inappropriately low serum cortisol concentrations and respond to steroid administration. Adrenal insufficiency is transient and likely reflects normal adrenal physiology at younger gestational ages. There is no general consensus on its diagnosis, effective minimum dose for treatment and duration of treatment. SUMMARY More large scale, multicenter, randomized, double-blind studies are needed to make the diagnosis of relative adrenal insufficiency and to determine the indication, dose, complications and outcome of glucocorticoid therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose B Quintos
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Rhode Island Hospital/The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02903, USA.
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22
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Fernandez E, Montman R, Watterberg K. ACTH and cortisol response to critical illness in term and late preterm newborns. J Perinatol 2008; 28:797-802. [PMID: 18987643 PMCID: PMC2729502 DOI: 10.1038/jp.2008.190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) responses to critical illness in term and late preterm newborns and examine the relationship of these values to measures of clinical illness, including markers of cardiovascular dysfunction. STUDY DESIGN In this prospective observational study, we measured ACTH, baseline cortisol and ACTH-stimulated cortisol concentrations in mechanically ventilated infants >or=34 weeks gestational age and <5 postnatal days. ACTH-stimulated cortisol concentrations were also measured in a comparison group of non-critically ill, non-mechanically ventilated infants. The relationship of these values to measures of severity of illness including SNAP (score for neonatal acute physiology) scores, blood pressure and vasopressor initiation was examined. RESULT Concentrations are presented as median (25th to 75th percentile). Baseline cortisol values in critically ill infants (n=35) were 4.6 microg per 100 ml (3.0 to 16.2); 26 (74%) of these were <15 microg per 100 ml. ACTH-stimulated cortisol values were not significantly different from the comparison group (41 microg per 100 ml (30.3 to 51.8) vs 34.2 microg per 100 ml (25.2 to 43.3)). ACTH concentrations in ill infants (n=10) were 12 pgml(-1) (5.5 to 19.2). None of baseline cortisol, stimulated cortisol and ACTH increased significantly with increasing severity of illness. Of the ill infants, 71% received vasopressor therapy for hypotension. Cortisol concentrations in these infants were similar to those infants who did not receive vasopressor therapy. CONCLUSION The majority of these critically ill newborns had very low cortisol and ACTH values without the expected increase in response to critical illness; however, their response to exogenous ACTH was normal. These results demonstrate that the inadequate response to critical illness in these newborns does not result from adrenal dysfunction. We therefore hypothesize that this is a secondary insufficiency arising from inadequate stimulation of the adrenal gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Fernandez
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque NM
| | - Rebecca Montman
- General Clinical Research Center, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque NM
| | - Kristi Watterberg
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque NM
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23
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Masumoto K, Kusuda S, Aoyagi H, Tamura Y, Obonai T, Yamasaki C, Sakuma I, Uchiyama A, Nishida H, Oda S, Fukumura K, Tagawa N, Kobayashi Y. Comparison of serum cortisol concentrations in preterm infants with or without late-onset circulatory collapse due to adrenal insufficiency of prematurity. Pediatr Res 2008; 63:686-90. [PMID: 18520332 DOI: 10.1203/pdr.0b013e31816c8fcc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
A recent survey found that approximately 4% of very low birth weight infants in Japan were treated with glucocorticoids postnatally for circulatory collapse thought to be caused by late-onset adrenal insufficiency. We identified 11 preterm infants with clinical signs compatible with this diagnosis (hypotension, oliguria, hyponatremia, lung edema, and increased demand for oxygen treatment) and matched them for gestational age with 11 infants without such signs. Blood samples were obtained for cortisol and its precursors from the patient group before the administration of hydrocortisone, and from the control group during the same postnatal week. All samples were analyzed using a gas chromatography-mass spectrometry system. Cortisol concentrations did not differ between the two groups (6.6 +/- 4.5 vs 3.4 +/- 2.7 microg/dL); however, the total concentration of precursors in the pathway to cortisol production was significantly higher in the patient group (72.2 +/- 50.3 vs 25.0 +/- 28.5 microg/dL; p < 0.05). We conclude that the clinical picture of late-onset adrenal insufficiency in preterm infants is not a result of an absolute deficiency of cortisol production, but may be a result of a limited ability to synthesize sufficient cortisol for the degree of clinical stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenichi Masumoto
- Maternal and Perinatal Center, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan
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24
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Honour JW, Bridges NA, Conway-Phillips E, Hindmarsh PC. Plasma aldosterone response to the low-dose adrenocorticotrophin (ACTH 1-24) stimulation test. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2008; 68:299-303. [PMID: 17868383 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2265.2007.03041.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endocrine tests for adrenal insufficiency use pharmacological doses of stimulant such as ACTH. More physiological tests have often used high-dose protocols for sampling frequency. AIMS To evaluate the response of plasma aldosterone concentration to low doses (125, 250 and 500 ng/m(2) body surface area) of synthetic ACTH. DESIGN A randomised trial in six normal adult males aged 18-27 years. MATERIALS AND METHODS Aldosterone concentration was measured by radioimmunoassay in serum from blood samples taken at 10 min intervals for 90 min. RESULTS All three doses produced a significant rise in plasma aldosterone concentration (125 ng/m(2), P = 0.003; 250 ng/m(2), P < 0.001; 500 ng/m(2), P < 0.001) but there was no effect of dose on either the peak or incremental plasma aldosterone concentration. Mean time to peak was similar between the doses and the two higher doses were associated with a longer secretory profile (125 ng/m(2) 56 (26 SD) mins, 250 ng/m(2) 74 (19) mins, 500 ng/m(2) 77 (21) mins; F = 3.39; P = 0.04). Peaks of 100% were detected within 30 min of drug administration and peak response was associated with the prestimulation plasma aldosterone concentration (r = 0.45; P = 0.003). The between- and within-individual coefficients of variation for prestimulation concentrations were 37.0% and 32.8%, and for the peak response were 27.2% and 27.2%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The response of plasma aldosterone concentrations to low-dose ACTH administration requires a blood sampling protocol of 0, 10, 20 and 30 min to capture concentrations near the peak response. The high-dose protocol would have missed the response. Over the dose range studied no dose-response was observed so the selection of dose should be based on the dose effective to release steroids in the glucocorticoid pathway if this study is to be used in conjunction with such evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- J W Honour
- Supra-Regional Assay Service Laboratory, Clinical Biochemistry, University College London Hospitals, 60 Whitfield St, London, W1T 4EU, United Kingdom.
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25
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Hwang IT. Evaluation of function and disorders of the adrenal gland in neonates. KOREAN JOURNAL OF PEDIATRICS 2007. [DOI: 10.3345/kjp.2007.50.3.236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Il Tae Hwang
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul, Korea
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26
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Adrenal insufficiency, common in critically ill patients of all ages, has recently gained prominence as a significant pathologic entity in pediatrics. This review describes the current diagnostic approach to detecting adrenal insufficiency and the clinical consequences in critically ill children and infants. It also discusses the current therapeutic approach to adrenal insufficiency in critically ill patients. RECENT FINDINGS Relative adrenal insufficiency and its clinical implications have recently come into focus with observational studies demonstrating a high prevalence in pediatric septic shock patients and a significant associated morbidity. Neonatal studies have clarified diagnostic testing and defined clinical outcomes associated with adrenal insufficiency in preterm infants. Comparisons of bioavailable and total cortisol levels demonstrate the utility of total cortisol testing in pediatric septic shock patients. SUMMARY Adrenal insufficiency contributes to morbidity in critically ill neonates and children. Diagnostic testing by adrenocorticotropin stimulation tests should be done in patients unresponsive to standard treatment of shock. Prospective, randomized clinical trials in critically ill neonates and children with adrenal insufficiency are required to determine if these populations will benefit from glucocorticoid replacement therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Langer
- Children's Hospital Boston, Harvard Medical School, USA
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27
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent improvements in the survival of extremely preterm infants have been accompanied by evolution in the pathogenesis and histopathology of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Although oxygen and barotrauma-induced injury remain important contributing factors, pulmonary developmental arrest appears to play an equally important causal role in prolonged respiratory illness, especially among the most immature surviving preterm newborns. To date, clinical trials have failed to demonstrate a substantial benefit of a single treatment or preventive strategy for BPD. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the current evidence in favor of treatments that might prevent BPD. METHODS Review of clinical studies of preventive treatment strategies for BPD. RESULTS High frequency oscillatory ventilation, permissive hypercapnea, and inhaled nitric oxide might offer benefit to infants at risk of BPD. These and other potential preventive therapies for BPD, such as superoxide dismutase, inositol, and alpha(1)-proteinase inhibitor, deserve further study. CONCLUSIONS Although some current treatments offer promise, no preventive therapy for BPD has proven safe and effective, except for intramuscular vitamin A. Additional studies of respiratory technologies, management strategies, and protective molecules are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda J Van Marter
- Children's Hospital, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass., USA.
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