OBJECTIVETo assess micronutrients level in children with short bowel syndrome.

METHODSClinical data of 17 children with short bowel syndrome from April 2004 to July 2006 were collected. They received the measurement of serum vitamin A, E and - carotene by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

RESULTSThere were 9 boys and 8 girls with age range of 3 months to 18 years. Eleven children did not need parenteral nutrition (PN), and 6 still depended on PN. Six cases were free of ileocolic valve and 11 cases had ileocolic valve. The length of remaining intestine was more than 75 cm in 5 patients and less than 75 cm in 12 patients. Among 11 cases without PN, 9 were tested for serum iron, zinc and copper levels. Their incidences of below the reference value of vitamin A, E and beta - carotene were 23.5%, 35.3% and 58.8%, respectively. The incidences of below the reference value of vitamin A and beta - carotene were higher in patients with weaned PN, less than 75 cm remaining intestine and without ileocolic valve. The patients with more than 75 cm remaining intestine and still with PN had a higher incidence of below the reference of vitamin E, but the incidence was similar in the patients with or without ileocolic valve. Serum zinc was lower than normal level in 3 cases and serum iron was low in 1 case.

CONCLUSIONSupplement of extra micronutrients is essential for short bowl syndrome patient whatever they receive the PN or have normal diets, and follow- up is recommended.