A 65-year-old diabetic patient undergoes major upper GI surgery. The perioperative team considers immune-enhancing enteral nutrition. Which combination is classified as immunonutrition according to ASPEN/ESPEN guidelines?
- A Arginine, omega-3 fatty acids, and nucleotides ✓
- B Glutamine, branched-chain amino acids, and vitamin C
- C Probiotics, prebiotics, and short-chain fatty acids
- D Medium-chain triglycerides, zinc, and selenium
Correct answer: A. Arginine, omega-3 fatty acids, and nucleotides
Explanation
Immunonutrition refers to specific nutrient combinations, classically containing arginine, omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA), and nucleotides. These formulas modulate immune function, reduce infectious complications, and shorten hospital stay in malnourished patients undergoing major cancer surgery when given 5-7 days preoperatively. Glutamine supplementation is recommended for burn and trauma patients but is not the classic immunonutrition formula. Prebiotics and probiotics are distinct from immunonutrition.
Reference: ESPEN guideline on clinical nutrition in surgery, 2021 ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.