Abstract
The assessment of forearm oxygen consumption (VO2) and forearm blood flow (FBF) by means of near infrared spectroscopy has become widespread in adults, whereas in children and adolescents no data are available. Aim of the present study was to analyse VO2 and FBF in healthy children and adolescents. Methods: In a prospective cohort study 20 male and 20 female healthy children and adolescents were investigated. Measurements of VO2 and FBF were performed by means of near infrared spectroscopy in combination with the venous occlusion method. Results: Mean VO2 was 0.08 ± 0.04 ml 100 g−1 min−1 in male and 0.09 ± 0.05 ml 100 g−1 min−1 in female subjects. Mean FBF was 1.95 ± 1.25 ml 100 g−1 min−1 in male and 1.82 ± 0.98 ml 100 g−1 min−1 in female subjects. No significant difference was between male and female subjects. A significant negative correlation of VO2 and FBF to age was observed in both groups. Conclusion: In the present study we were able to show that VO2 and FBF decreased with increasing age in children and adolescents without significant difference between male and female subjects.
