Validation of predictive equations for resting energy expenditure in adult outpatients and inpatients

Summary Background & aims When individual energy requirements of adult patients cannot be measured by indirect calorimetry, they have to be predicted with an equation. The aim of this study was to analyze which resting energy expenditure (REE) predictive equation was the best alternative to indirect calorimetry in adult patients. Methods Predictive equations were included when based on weight, height, gender and/or age. REE was measured with indirect calorimetry. The mean squared prediction error was used to evaluate how well the equations fitted the REE measurement. Results Eighteen predictive equations were included. Indirect calorimetry data were available for 48 outpatients and 45 inpatients. Also a subgroup of 42 underweight patients (BMI