Measurement of elemental nitrogen by chemiluminescence: an evaluation of the Antek nitrogen analyzer system

Abstract

Application of indirect calorimetry has aided nutritional support and management in critically ill populations. However, knowledge of resting energy expenditure is only one-half of the nutritional profile. Knowledge of protein losses and requirements are also important. Attainment of positive protein balance is believed to play an important role in wound healing, host defenses, morbidity, and mortality. Previous limitations of the measurement of protein losses (time and cost) have limited its application to the ICU patient. This report describes a relatively new technology which measures elemental nitrogen in biologic samples. We have found this instrument to be fast, accurate, easy to calibrate and use. Its application in the critically ill patient allows us to monitor daily changes in protein losses and balance.