Infants born prematurely have an enhanced intestinal permeability compared to healthy term infants. This enhanced permeability might be a contributing factor in the development of Necrotising Enterocolitis. The assessment of intestinal permeability in premature neonates with sugar absorption tests has been proven to be safe and of minimal burden to the infant. After enteral administration of a test solution containing lactulose and mannitol, the excretion of these sugars is measured in urine, and the ratio is calculated. The lactulose and mannitol concentrations in urine can be measured by the use of a gas chromatograph after pre-purification and derivatisation of the sample. Non-invasive assessment of intestinal permeability can be useful in monitoring the effects of experimental (nutritional) therapy.
