Clinical Study of Intravenous Nutrition on Immune Function and Quality of Life of Premature Infants With Low Birth Weight: An Innovative Strategy Based on Immunometabolic Regulation.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the metabolic and immunologic impacts of transitioning from standard to improved parenteral nutrition in premature low birth-weight (PLBW) infants, and to provide evidence for optimized clinical nutrition support strategies.

METHODS

From October 2022 to October 2024, 120 PLBW infants were included and split into 2 groups of 60 each: 1 receiving intravenous nutrition support (study group) and the other traditional nutrition support (control group). The study group received individualized intravenous nutrition within 24 hours after birth, containing nutrients such as glucose, amino acids, ω-3 fish oil medium/long-chain fat emulsions, vitamins, and minerals. The control group received enteral feeding combined with delayed intravenous nutrition. This study conducted a comprehensive assessment of the 2 groups of PLBW infants, with observation indicators covering the following aspects: growth and development indicators, bone metabolism indicators, growth regulatory factors, nutritional indicators, immune indicators, and nutrition-related complications.

RESULTS

After the intervention, the study group showed significant improvements in body weight, head circumference, length growth rate, and bone metabolism indicators (25(OH)D 3 , Ca 2 ⁺, P, ALP) compared to the control group ( P < .05). The levels of growth regulatory factors (leptin, insulin-like growth factor-1, and growth hormone) and nutritional indicators (albumin, globulin, and prealbumin) were significantly increased in the study group, with more pronounced improvements in immune cells (CD3⁺ T, CD4⁺ T cells, and CD4⁺/CD8⁺ ratio) ( P < .05). In addition, the incidence of complications in the study group (6.67%) was significantly lower than that in the control group (30%), with a statistically significant difference (χ 2  = 4.537, P = .033).

CONCLUSION

Our findings demonstrate significant improvements in metabolic and immunologic outcomes when transitioning from standard to improved parenteral nutrition.