X‐Ray Microanalysis of the Fingernails in Term and Preterm Infants

L. Sirota, R. Straussberg, P. Fishman, F. Dulitzky, M. Djaldetti*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

16 Scopus citations

Abstract

Abstract: The element content of the fingernails of 10 term and 14 preterm infants, clipped for the first time after delivery, was determined by x‐ray microanalysis. The results showed a decrease in sulfur and aluminum, and a higher chlorine content in term infants in comparison with preterm ones, the difference being statistically significant. Sodium, potassium, calcium, and zinc content did not differ in the two groups. Copper, iron, magnesium, aluminum, and phosphorus were detected in trace amounts only. Cobalt was not detected in the fingernails of newborns in either group. The elevated content of aluminum in the fingernails of preterm infants may be a clue to the osteopenia observed in these infants.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)184-186
Number of pages3
JournalPediatric Dermatology
Volume5
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 1988

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