HS Lam, KW So, PC Ng

Abstract

Neonatal osteopenia is a well-known condition that predisposes to pathological fractures in newborn infants. Mineral deficiency leading to abnormal bone formation is the commonest cause of neonatal osteopenia and preterm infants are at increased risk of developing this condition. Other risk factors of neonatal osteopenia such as prolonged parenteral nutrition, chronic diseases such as bronchopulmonary dysplasia and short bowel syndrome have also been implicated. Early detection of this condition by monitoring markers of bone metabolism is, therefore, important in these high-risk populations. In this review, we will examine the literature with regard to identification of high-risk infants and methods that will help minimise the development of this condition.