[Evaluation of serum total carnitine values in persons with severe motor and intellectual disabilities with enteral (tube) feeding].

OBJECTIVE

The nutritive evaluation and the serum carnitine values were measured for persons with severe motor and intellectual disabilities with enteral (tube) feeding.

METHODS

In Shimada Rehabilitation Center, twenty one people who had serum albumin levels of 3.4 g/dl or less, and were taking nutrition with enteral (tube) feeding, were tested. Body weight, blood samples, and serum carnitine levels were measured.

RESULTS

The total carnitine value was less than the standard value in 19 patients. The total carnitine value decreased in the group taking valporate sodium (VPA), compared to the values from the group non-taking VPA.

CONCLUSIONS

From our evaluation, we think that daily carnitine supplements is essential for persons with sever motor and intellectual disabilities taking VPA to maintain carnitine levels in the blood, and regular urine test should be done for earlier detection secondary lack complications from the secondary lack of carnitine.