Vitamin A and E deficiency and lung disease in infants with cystic fibrosis

Abstract

Objectives: Vitamin A and E deficiency is common in cystic fibrosis (CF). These vitamins have immunomodulating properties and we determined whether decreased serum vitamin A and E levels in young infants are associated with early CF lung disease and lower airway inflammation. Methods: A post-hoc analysis was undertaken on previous data collected prospectively in 39 newly diagnosed infants identified by a newborn CF screening programme. Assessment of CF genotype, nutrition, pancreatic status, serum retinol and α-tocopherol levels was performed at diagnosis. Pulmonary status was determined clinically, by Brasfield chest radiographic scores and analysis of bacterial counts and inflammatory indi..