The Relationship Between Refeeding Syndrome and Preterm Morbidities in Preterm Infants

Objective: This study was conducted to determine the risk factors for refeeding syndrome (RFS) in preterm infants and evaluate its relationship with preterm morbidities. Methods: Preterm infants born before 30 weeks of gestation were retrospectively evaluated. RFS was diagnosed as phosphorus <4 mg/dL and/or calcium >11 mg/dL on postnatal day 7. Demographic and clinical findings were compared between preterm infants with and without RFS. Results: A total of 174 infants who met the inclusion criteria were analyzed. RFS was diagnosed with 60 infants (34.5%). The mean gestational age (GA) was 27 (range, 25–28) weeks in the RFS group and 28 (range, 26–30) weeks in the non-RFS group (p = 0.038). Mean birth weight (BW) in each group was 790 (range, 630–1000) grams and 1033 (range, 800–1310) grams, respectively (p < 0.001). The RFS group had a lower rate of antenatal steroid (ANS) administration, lower APGAR, length of hospital stay, and higher rates of small for gestational age status, respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and patent ductus arteriosus (p < 0.05). On postnatal day 7, the RFS group had lower phosphorus and higher calcium levels (p < 0.001). After adjustment for GA, BW, Apgar score, and ANS, the frequency of RDS was higher among infants with RFS (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Preterm infants with RDS were more likely to develop RFS. Our results suggest that these infants require more frequent laboratory testing and closer follow-up to monitor for RFS and ensure timely electrolyte support.