The significance of epidermal growth factor (EGF) in human milk, in relation to subsequent infant growth is controversial. Aim: To examine the significance of EGF level present in maternal milk of preterm, full term newborns. Methods: The levels of EGF were measured in human colostrum of 60 mothers, 30 of preterm babies and 30 with full term babies. It was also measured in 10 commercial infant milk formulas using commercially available ELISA kits. The infants were followed up at age three months of age to assess their growth increment rates. Results: The level of EGF in maternal colostrum was significantly higher in the milk of mothers with preterms (181.25 ng/ml) than in those of the full term group (115.04 ng/ml) at P |
