Intravenous linoleic acid supplementation in children with cystic fibrosis.

Ten children with CF in matched pairs were infused with either Intralipid 
or with 10% glucose on a double blind basis every other 
week for one year. Although statistically there was significantly greater gain 
in height and weight in the study year compared to the 
previous year only for the test group, both groups improved more 
than expected. Cumulative data analysis showed greater improvement for the Intralipid 
group (23 of a possible 45 points) compared to the glucose 
group (-2 points; P less than .02). This study indicates the 
need to better define the role of nutrition in the pathophysiology 
of CF. Meanwhile, it is recommended that all children with CF 
have plasma linoleic acid levels measured at least once yearly, and 
if levels are low, appropriate supplements should be given. 