The factor age and the recovery of severely burned children

Purpose

It is not known if the recovery of pediatric burn patients is age-dependent. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of age on the recovery of body composition of severely burned children.

Procedures

Pediatric patients with massive burns, ≥40% of total body surface area, were followed over 2 years. Patients were divided into two age groups: 0–3.9 years old and 4–17.9 years old at the time of burn.Body composition was determined at hospital discharge, 6, 9, 12, 18, and 24 months after burn using dual-X-ray absorptiometry. Data analysis was performed using a two way ANOVA followed by Tukey's correction when appropriate. Significance was accepted at p < 0.05.

Findings

Twenty-four patients were enrolled (age 0–3.9: n = 9; age 4–17.9: n = 15). Percent changes in height and bone mineral content were significantly increased in the younger age group, p < 0.05. In contrast, percent changes in lean body mass were significantly lower in younger patients, p < 0.05. Percent changes in total body fat mass were not affected.

Conclusion

Patterns of recovery in pediatric burn patients are determined by age. This observation should be considered in the development of therapeutic approaches.