Nutrition Assessment of Children With Neuromuscular Disease at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

摘要

Nutrition assessment of children, adolescents, and young adults with neuromuscular disease is challenging. Goals for medical nutrition therapy include nutritional support not only for growth and development but also for muscle function. Anthropometric measurements must be obtained accurately and consistently. Challenges arise when obtaining measurements such as weight and height, when interpreting these measurements, and when estimating nutrient needs of a child in a wheelchair. This review of outpatient nutrition assessment and management of children with neuromuscular disease at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia is meant to provide guidance for those who care for these children.