Plasma aldosterone levels in the 1st week of life in infants of less than 30 weeks gestation

Plasma aldosterone levels were measured in 50 infants of less than 30 weeks gestation at 24 h (D1) and 7 days (D7). The relationship between the plasma aldosterone level and a number of clinical and biochemical variables was explored. Plasma aldosterone levels ranged from 1000 to 30000 pmol/l and were inversely correlated with the severity of illness (D1 or D7), serum sodium (D7) and 24 h sodium intake (D1). No correlation with the serum potassium level was noted. Conclusion:Plasma aldosterone levels in this extremely premature cohort were significantly greater than those reported in more mature infants. Important determinants were severity of illness and sodium homeostasis.