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Microplastics in neonates: an overlooked cost of parenteral nutrition
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Researchers detected microplastics in neonatal blood at levels that increased with parenteral nutrition duration, with larger particles over 60 µm found exclusively in long-term recipients — suggesting that intravenous nutrition delivery systems may be an underrecognized iatrogenic source of microplastic exposure in vulnerable newborns.
Introduction: Microplastics (MPs) are emerging contaminants that raise concerns due to their potential health effects on vulnerable neonates who may be exposed to medical devices. Methods: This prospective study investigated the presence of MPs in neonatal blood in relation to parenteral nutrition (PN) duration. A total of 12 neonates were categorized into long-term (>14 days), short-term (3-7 days), and non-exposed control groups. MPs were analyzed using confocal micro-Raman spectroscopy. Results: < 0.05), demonstrating a dose-response relationship with PN duration. Notably, larger MPs (>60 μm) were found exclusively in the long-term group. Discussion: These preliminary findings, derived from a small sample cohort, suggest that the PN system may serve as a potential iatrogenic source of MPs for neonates. Clinical trial registration: NCT07326761.
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