Resting energy expenditure and body composition in children with myelomeningocele.

Purpose: Myelomeningocele is a complex disease often complicated by obesity for reasons not well understood. The objectives of this study were to determine body composition and energy expenditure of children with MMC.

Methods: Resting energy expenditure (REE), body composition and anthropometry were measured in 19 children with MMC (12 M, 7 F). Total energy expenditure (TEE) was estimated using a 3-day activity record. Energy intake (EI) was measured in seven children (5 M, 2 F) with MMC. Data were then compared with predicted values.

Results: Mean REE (n = 19) was 4680 +/- 1452 kJ/day (96.1 +/- 18.1% of predicted REE). The range was large (45.8-125.7% of predicted REE). TEE (n = 7) was 4344 +/- 2376 kJ/day, hence only 73 34% of predicted TEE. EI (n = 7) was 6560 +/- 1329 kJ/day, approximating a normal energy requirement. Overall, BCM was lower than expected values.

Conclusions: REE in children with MMC is variable when compared to predicted values. TEE was found to be lower in children with MMC than predicted values and EI was similar to predicted values in this group of seven children. BCM is reduced in children with MMC when compared to expected values.