Late metabolic acidosis is seen in-
Term infant given formula feed
Preterm baby getting cow milk
Long term breast feeding
None of the above
Ans. is 'b' i.e., Preterm baby getting cow milk Late metabolic acidosis (LMA) o Late metabolic acidosis is a special type of acidosis in apparently healthy premature infant. o This hyperchloremic acidosis appeares during second and third week of life, and resolves spontaneously within a couple of weeks. Definition "An acidosis occuring after second day of life, in which base excess values are lower than -5meq/L on two consecutive estimations done at least 24 hours apa". Etiology o Prematurity is the most impoant single predisposing factor in the development of LMA. o The incidence varies considerably depending upon the gestational maturity and protein content of feeding formula. o In preterm neonates fed on a modified cow's milk the risk of developing LMA is very high.