Role of Lactoferrin in Prevention of Ventilator Associated Pneumonia in Neonates.

Role of Lactoferrin in Prevention of Ventilator Associated Pneumonia in Neonates.

The aim of the study is to

1. Evaluate the preventive value of Lactoferrin on VAP among ventilated neonates.

2. Evaluate the Primary outcome of Lactoferrin on:

   Sepsis, Feeding intolerance, Vomiting, Constipation or diarrhea

3. Evaluate the effect of Lactoferrin in critically ventilated neonates on:

Incidence of VAP Duration of mechanical ventilation Duration of hospital stay

Randomised controlled trial

Inclusion Criteria:

Preterm neonates requiring mechanical ventilation.

Gestational age: (GA 28-36 weeks).

Expected need for mechanical ventilation for ≥ (48hours)

Exclusion Criteria:

Congenital anomalies of the lung or airway.

Major congenital heart disease.

Proven early-onset sepsis at enrollment.

Severe perinatal asphyxia (e.g., Apgar < 3 at 5 minutes or seizures).

Known contraindication or allergy to lactoferrin.

Severe gastrointestinal pathology (e.g., NEC stage II or higher).

Any condition deemed by the clinical team to interfere with study participation.