Calcium and Phosphorus and the Preterm Infant

The early hypocalcemia observed in preterm infants is common. An increasing degree of asymptomatic hypocalcemia is observed with decreasing gestational age. Treatment is controversial and evidence of benefit is lacking. The intakes of calcium and phosphorus for the preterm infant to achieve adequate bone growth and mineralization are based on the amount acquired by the human fetus during the last trimester of pregnancy. Though normal bone mineralization is difficult to achieve, it is possible to prevent osteopenia/rickets in the preterm infant by maximizing intakes of calcium and phosphorus.