Prediction Equations Underestimate Resting Energy Expenditure in Patients With End-Stage Cystic Fibrosis

A new study on the Nutrition Clinical Practice Journal demonstrates that the assessment of energy expenditure in cystic fibrosis patients requires indirect calorimetry and cannot be predicted by equations.

Resting energy expenditure (REE) is increased in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) with end-stage lung disease due to chronic inflammation and pulmonary infections. After lung transplantation (LTx), energy expenditure is expected to be lower because inflammation will decrease. This study, therefore, assessed the agreement between measured and predicted REE in pre-LTx CF and post-LTx patients with CF and differences in REE in pre-LTx CF and post-LTx patients with CF in a cross-sectional study.

The main outcome of the study was that prediction equations (Harris-Benedict 1919 and 1984, Schofield, and the WHO) underestimate REE in at least 75% of pre-LTx and 33% of post-LTx patients with CF. The study concludes that "the measurement of REE is recommended for patients with CF, especially pre-LTx, to optimize energy requirements for improving nutrition status".

The article details are the following:

- Title: "Prediction Equations Underestimate Resting Energy Expenditure in Patients With End-Stage Cystic Fibrosis"
- Authors: Hollander FM, Kok A, de Roos NM, Belle-van Meerkerk G, van de Graaf EA
- Published in: Nutr Clin Pract. 2016 May 3

The full study can be purchased at the following link: click here