Copper Deficiency in Children With Intestinal Failure: Risk Factors and Influence on Hematological Cytopenias

Background We investigated to what extent serum copper influences hemoglobin (Hb), neutrophil, and platelet counts and the factors associated with serum copper in children with intestinal failure (IF) who have their micronutrient status monitored according to a standard protocol. Methods Children with IF admitted to a pediatric intestinal rehabilitation program and receiving home parenteral nutrition (PN) were followed up prospectively. Patients received vitamins and multi-trace elements (TEs) as part of the PN. Copper, iron, zinc, vitamin A, and cobalamin serum levels were routinely monitored at 3-month intervals or monthly when a deficiency was detected. Complete blood counts were performed biweekly. Repeated-measures analyses were used to estimate the effect of explanatory variables on the outcomes. Results Thirteen children with a median time receiving PN of 16.6 months were included. An average of 7 copper measurements per patient were performed; 53.8% of patients had a low serum level at least twice during the follow-up. Eight patients with cholestasis had TEs of PN discontinued. In the multivariable analysis, copper was not associated with Hb levels; an increase of 10 mu g/dL in serum copper resulted in an increase of 240/mm(3) (95% confidence interval [CI], 18.0-30.1) neutrophils and of 8429/mm(3) (95% CI, 466-1219) platelets (P < .001). Time of PN without copper, direct bilirubin levels, and ostomy were associated with lower serum copper. Conclusion The increase in serum copper was associated with significant increases in neutrophil and platelet counts. Time without copper in PN, cholestasis, and having an ostomy negatively influenced copper status.

Automated summary

The study found that an increase in serum copper was significantly associated with increases in neutrophil and platelet counts in children with intestinal failure receiving home parenteral nutrition. However, the time without copper in PN, cholestasis, and having an ostomy negatively influenced copper status.