Micronutrients in critically ill- Can we look for anything better?

The metabolism and maintenance of tissue functions requires optimal nutrition and the need increases in the critically ill patients with grossly deranged tissue functions. The nutritional support of these critically ill patients must include the provision for vitamins and trace elements. These substances, collectively termed as 'micronutrients' are essential not only as intermediaries in metabolism but also for their potential roles in cellular immunity, wound healing and antioxidant activity.

Single micronutrient deficiencies are comparatively easier to diagnose and treat but sub clinical deficiencies of multiple nutrients which are commoner is difficult to recognize. Moreover, laboratory assessment is often complicated by the acute phase response of tissue damage. Thus clinical benefits of supplementation are often not evaluated due to lack of 'control'.

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