Neonatal Anemia.

All neonates experience a downtrend in their hematocrit values immediately following the birth through normal falls in erythropoietin (Epo) production, transition to adult hemoglobin, and hemodilution with somatic growth. However, this drop is more pronounced in critically ill and preterm neonates and can lead to potentially pathologic anemia that impairs tissue oxygen delivery. In this review, we highlight the mechanisms underlying physiologic anemia and anemia of prematurity and briefly review the evidence for the treatment of anemia in the neonatal population, including the use of red blood cell transfusions, erythropoietic stimulating agents, and iron supplementation.

Iron Nutrition, Erythrocytes, and Erythropoietin in the NICU: Erythropoietic and Neuroprotective Effects.

Prematurity, maternal diabetes, maternal smoking, being medically underserved, and small size for gestational age are common characteristics of neonates in the NICU and can predispose them to develop congenital iron deficiency. Iron is critical for organ development. In the fetus and newborn, iron is prioritized for red blood cell production, sometimes at the expense of other tissues, including the brain. It is critical to optimize iron levels in newborns to support erythropoiesis, growth, and brain development. Available studies support improved neurodevelopmental outcomes with either iron supplementation or delayed umbilical cord clamping at birth. Erythropoietic doses of erythropoietin/erythrocyte-stimulating agents may also improve neurocognitive outcomes. However, the literature on the effect of liberal red blood cell transfusions on long-term neurodevelopment is mixed. Understanding age-specific normal values and monitoring of iron indices can help individualize and optimize the iron status of patients in the NICU.

Infantile Pyknocytosis: An Uncommon Cause of Newborn Hemolytic Anemia.

Infantile pyknocytosis is a rare cause of neonatal hemolytic anemia, which presents in the first few weeks of life. We report a classic case of infantile pyknocytosis that presented to our institution with rebound hyperbilirubinemia after receiving phototherapy. The infant was found to have a hemoglobin of 5.8 g/dL, requiring a total of 15 mL/kg of red blood cells (in 2 separate transfusions) before discharge. The diagnosis was ultimately made by a review of the peripheral blood smear. We review the literature and suggest pediatricians consider infantile pyknocytosis on their differential when hemolytic anemia presents in the newborn period.

Immunoglobulin for alloimmune hemolytic disease in neonates.

BACKGROUND: Exchange transfusion and phototherapy have traditionally been used to treat jaundice and avoid the associated neurological complications. Because of the risks and burdens of exchange transfusion, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) has been suggested as an alternative therapy for alloimmune hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) to reduce the need for exchange transfusion. OBJECTIVES: To assess the effect and complications of IVIg in newborn infants with alloimmune HDN on the need for and number of exchange transfusions. SEARCH METHODS: We performed electronic searches of CENTRAL, PubMed, Embase (Ovid), Web of Science, CINAHL (EBSCOhost), Academic Search Premier, and the trial registers ClinicalTrials.gov and controlled-trials.com in May 2017. We also searched reference lists of included and excluded trials and relevant reviews for further relevant studies. SELECTION CRITERIA: We considered all randomized and quasi-randomized controlled trials of IVIg in the treatment of alloimmune HDN. Trials must have used predefined criteria for the use of IVIg and exchange transfusion therapy to be included. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: We used the standard methods of Cochrane and its Neonatal Review Group. We assessed studies for inclusion and two review authors independently assessed quality and extracted data. We discussed any differences of opinion to reach consensus. We contacted investigators for additional or missing information. We calculated risk ratio (RR), risk difference (RD) and number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) for categorical outcomes. We calculated mean difference (MD) for continuous variables. We used GRADE criteria to assess the risk of bias for major outcomes and to summarize the level of evidence. MAIN RESULTS: Nine studies with 658 infants fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Term and preterm infants with Rh or ABO (or both) incompatibility were included. The use of exchange transfusion decreased significantly in the immunoglobulin treated group (typical RR 0.35, 95% CI 0.25 to 0.49; typical RD -0.22, 95% CI -0.27 to -0.16; NNTB 5). The mean number of exchange transfusions per infant was also significantly lower in the immunoglobulin treated group (MD -0.34, 95% CI -0.50 to -0.17). However, sensitivity analysis by risk of bias showed that in the only two studies in which the treatment was masked by use of a placebo and outcome assessment was blinded, the results differed; there was no difference in the need for exchange transfusions (RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.48 to 1.98) or number of exchange transfusions (MD -0.04, 95% CI -0.18 to 0.10). Two studies assessed long-term outcomes and found no cases of kernicterus, deafness or cerebral palsy. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Although overall results show a significant reduction in the need for exchange transfusion in infants treated with IVIg, the applicability of the results is limited because of low to very low quality of evidence. Furthermore, the two studies at lowest risk of bias show no benefit of IVIg in reducing the need for and number of exchange transfusions. Based on these results, we have insufficient confidence in the effect estimate for benefit of IVIg to make even a weak recommendation for the use of IVIg for the treatment of alloimmune HDN. Further studies are needed before the use of IVIg for the treatment of alloimmune HDN can be recommended, and should include blinding of the intervention by use of a placebo as well as sufficient sample size to assess the potential for serious adverse effects.

Neonatal management and outcome in alloimmune hemolytic disease.

INTRODUCTION: Hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) occurs when fetal and neonatal erythroid cells are destroyed by maternal erythrocyte alloantibodies, it leads to anemia and hydrops in the fetus, and hyperbilirubinemia and kernicterus in the newborn. Postnatal care consists of intensive phototherapy and exchange transfusions to treat severe hyperbilirubinemia and top-up transfusions to treat early and late anemia. Other postnatal complications have been reported such as thrombocytopenia, iron overload and cholestasis requiring specific management. Areas covered: This review focusses on the current neonatal management and outcome of hemolytic disease and discusses postnatal treatment options as well as literature on long-term neurodevelopmental outcome. Expert commentary: Despite major advances in neonatal management, multiple issues have to be addressed to optimize postnatal management and completely eradicate kernicterus. Except for strict adherence to guidelines, improvement could be achieved by clarifying the epidemiology and pathophysiology of HDFN. Several pharmacotherapeutic agents should be further researched as alternative treatment options in hyperbilirubinemia, including immunoglobulins, albumin, phenobarbital, metalloporphyrins, zinc, clofibrate and prebiotics. Larger trials are warranted to evaluate EPO, folate and vitamin E in neonates. Long-term follow-up studies are needed in HDFN, especially on thrombocytopenia, iron overload and cholestasis.

Benefits of Delayed Cord Clamping in Red Blood Cell Alloimmunization.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Several studies have shown the benefits of delayed cord clamping (DCC) in preterm and in healthy newborns at short and long term. Our objective was to evaluate the potentials benefits and risks of DCC in red cell alloimmunization. METHODS: This was a comparative before/after study of all living born neonates followed after fetal anemia requiring in utero transfusion. DCC was defined as cord clamping 30 seconds after birth. RESULTS: We included a continuous series of 72 neonates: 36 without DDC (group 1) and 36 with DDC (group 2). Hemoglobin at birth was lower in group 1 (10.2 vs 13.4 g/dL, P = .0003); 7 (25%) neonates in group 1 vs 24 (70.6%) in group 2 had no anemia at birth (P = .004). The rate of transfusion was similar between the 2 groups. Postnatal exchange transfusions were more likely performed in the group without DCC than in the group with DCC (47.2% vs 19.4%, P = .0124). Delay between birth and first transfusion was higher in group 2 (0 [0-13] vs 1 [0-21], P = .0274). The maximum level of bilirubin, the rate of intensive phototherapy, and the total duration of phototherapy were similar in the 2 groups. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights a significant benefit of DCC in anemia secondary to red blood cell alloimmunization with a resulting decreased postnatal exchange transfusion needs, an improvement in the hemoglobin level at birth and longer delay between birth and first transfusion with no severe hyperbilirubinemia.

Outcomes of a Quality Improvement Initiative to Prevent Unnecessary Packed Red Blood Cell Transfusions Among Extremely Low Birth-Weight Neonates.

BACKGROUND: Extremely low birth-weight (ELBW) infants frequently receive packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusions. Recent studies have shown that more restrictive PRBC transfusion guidelines limit donor exposure and reduce transfusion-related costs without any increase in adverse clinical outcomes. PURPOSE: We developed and implemented an evidence-based PRBC transfusion guideline for ELBW infants treated in our unit and then measured provider adherence to this guideline. METHODS/SEARCH STRATEGY: We performed a retrospective review of all PRBC transfusions given to ELBW infants in 2012 (preguideline) and the first half of 2014 (postguideline). We identified the indication for each transfusion by reviewing physiological/laboratory data and the daily clinical note. We then determine whether each transfusion met criteria according to our new evidence-based guideline. FINDINGS/RESULTS: When extrapolating the newly developed protocol to 2012 data, less than 15% of transfusions among ELBW infants would have met the current evidence-based standard. Conversely, during the first 6 months of 2014, 61% of transfusions were administered in adherence to the guideline (P < 001). Using current cost estimates, this represents a projected cost savings of $31,000 in that 6-month period. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: A multidisciplinary approach to improving PRBC transfusion practices results in potentially safer, more cost-effective care for ELBW infants. IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH: Given the frequency, potential harms, and costs associated with PRBC transfusions in ELBW infants, it seems both feasible and important to pursue prospective clinical trials comparing permissive and restrictive approaches to transfusion in this vulnerable population.

[THE FETAL MIDDLE CEREBRAL ARTERY PEAK SYSTOLIC VELOCITY AS A PEDICTOR OF FETAL ANEMIA IN RH-ALLOIMMUNIZED PREGNANCY].

UNLABELLED: Rh-isoimmunization is a pathological condition in which the fetal red blood cells of a Rh (+) fetus are destroyed by the isoantibodies of a Rh (-) woman sensitized in a previous event. Despite of the wide spread implementation of anti D-gammaglobolin prophylaxis this is still the most common cause for fetal anemia. Recently, sonographic measurement of the fetal middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity (MCA-PSV) has been shown to be an accurate non-invasive test to predict low fetal hemoglobin levels. We present a case report of Rh-alloimmunized pregnancy with moderate fetal anemia, followed-up by weekly MCA-PSV measurements. CASE REPORT: A 37-year-old Rh (-) negative gravida 3, para 1, without anti-D gammaglobolin prophylaxis in her previous pregnancies, presented at 27+0 weeks of gestation (w.g.) for a routine third trimester scan. Subsequent ultrasound measurements of MCA-PSV confirmed a progressive increase of the peak systolic velocities from 40 to 80 cm/sec, as well as a gradual rise in the anti-D titers. The evidence of developing fetal anemia necessitated elective Caesarean section performed at 35 wg. The neonate was admitted in the intensive care unit and required resuscitation, one exchange blood transfusion and several courses of phototherapy. The patient was discharged two weeks post partum. CONCLUSIONS: There is a strong correlation between the high peak systolic velocities in the middle cerebral artery (MCA-PSV) and the low levels of fetal hemoglobin. The high sensitivity and positive predictive value concerning the development of fetal anemia, as well as its good repeatability, makes this non-invasive test a valuable asset in the management of all pregnancies complicated by severe Rh-alloimmunization.

[Autotransfusion of cord blood erythrocytes in newborns with malformations requiring early surgical intervention].

PURPOSE: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of cord blood erythrocytes autotransfiusion for the correction of anemia in the intra-and postoperative periods in infants requiring early surgical correction of congenital malformations. METHODS: Washed autoemythrocytes from placental umbilical blood were transfused for correction of intra and post-operative anemias. Umbilical blood assembly was carried out after extraction of the child and navel intersection by the occluded mean by a vein puncture distal (placental) end of a navel by the drainage needle which is a part of special transfiusion system. Further blood in the marked containers was pitched in branch of gravitational surgery of blood where its centrifiugal separation on erythrocyte mass and plasma was made. Then concentrated red cells it was put on storage for 21 day in a cooler at temperature 40 °C. Directly ahead of autotransfusion concentrated red cells was exposed to washing out in sterile physiological solution and a filtration through the micromodular filter. Then the marked package with the washed erythrocytes was pitched in branch of surgery of newborns for the purpose offurther anttqtransfusion under indications. The transfusion autoerythrocytes was made according to reacting at the moment of carrying out of work to orders of Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation: to the Order of Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation from November, 25th, 2002 No 363 "About the statement of the Instruction on application of components of blood" and to the Order of Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation from April, 2nd, 2013 N 183n "About the statement of rules of clinical use of donor blood and (or) its components". RESULTS: Total 122 newborns received an autotransfiusion of washed erythrocytes of placental/umbilical cord blood for the correction of anemia in the department of neonatal surgery in the period from 2005 to 2013. 66 children who are in the first two weeks of life were performed surgical intervention for malformation of the gastrointestinal tract (gastorshizis (22), omphalocele (2). itestinal atresia (10), esophageal atresia or doubling (4)), congenital diaphragmatic hernia (15), space-occupying lesions (teratoma (6) and lymphangioma (3)) and other pathologies (adenomatous lung (1), the sequestration of the lung (2). ovarian cyst (1)). Control group consisted of39 infants operated on for similar malformations , which in the absence of prior communication harvested autologous red blood cells in the first three weeks of life sparkled donor erythrocytes. Inmost cases (57 newborns - 86.4%) of the amount harvested and transfused blood autokonmpo tov was sufficient for the relief ofanemia, despite the fact that the volume of transfused autoeritrotsitnoy mass per kilogram of body weight was almost two times lower than the amount of donor erythrocyte mass used in the comparison group. Additional donor transfusion of red blood cells in the group of children who had autotransfusion, it took nine newborns (13.6%). The main indications for repeated transfusions were clinical and laboratory signs of anemia, persisting after autotransfusion or resulting from repeated operations. After transfusion of washed autoerythrocytes value of clinical and biochemical. blood tests, urinalysis were within the age norm. Post-transfusion reactions in children who have received a transfusion autoerythrocytes not mentioned CONCLUSION: The use of placental/umbilical cord blood autoe,ythrocyvtes in children requiring early surgical correction of congenital malformations can significantly reduce the need for donor red blood cells. Autologous red blood cells use is a safe and effective alternative to transfusion of donor red blood cells.

Effect of delayed versus early umbilical cord clamping on neonatal outcomes and iron status at 4 months: a randomised controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of delayed umbilical cord clamping, compared with early clamping, on infant iron status at 4 months of age in a European setting. DESIGN: Randomised controlled trial. SETTING: Swedish county hospital. PARTICIPANTS: 400 full term infants born after a low risk pregnancy. INTERVENTION: Infants were randomised to delayed umbilical cord clamping (≥ 180 seconds after delivery) or early clamping (≤ 10 seconds after delivery). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Haemoglobin and iron status at 4 months of age with the power estimate based on serum ferritin levels. Secondary outcomes included neonatal anaemia, early respiratory symptoms, polycythaemia, and need for phototherapy. RESULTS: At 4 months of age, infants showed no significant differences in haemoglobin concentration between the groups, but infants subjected to delayed cord clamping had 45% (95% confidence interval 23% to 71%) higher mean ferritin concentration (117 µg/L v 81 µg/L, P < 0.001) and a lower prevalence of iron deficiency (1 (0.6%) v 10 (5.7%), P = 0.01, relative risk reduction 0.90; number needed to treat = 20 (17 to 67)). As for secondary outcomes, the delayed cord clamping group had lower prevalence of neonatal anaemia at 2 days of age (2 (1.2%) v 10 (6.3%), P = 0.02, relative risk reduction 0.80, number needed to treat 20 (15 to 111)). There were no significant differences between groups in postnatal respiratory symptoms, polycythaemia, or hyperbilirubinaemia requiring phototherapy. CONCLUSIONS: Delayed cord clamping, compared with early clamping, resulted in improved iron status and reduced prevalence of iron deficiency at 4 months of age, and reduced prevalence of neonatal anaemia, without demonstrable adverse effects. As iron deficiency in infants even without anaemia has been associated with impaired development, delayed cord clamping seems to benefit full term infants even in regions with a relatively low prevalence of iron deficiency anaemia. Trial registration Clinical Trials NCT01245296.

Administración precoz de eritropoyetina en el prematuro extremo, ¿factor de riesgo de la retinopatía del prematuro? / Early administration of erythropoietin in the extreme premature, a risk factor for retinopathy of prematurity?

Introducción: La eritropoyetina (EPO) estimula la angiogénesis y podría favorecer la retinopatía del prematuro (ROP). El objetivo fue determinar si la EPO más hierro (Fe) administrada a partir del quinto día de vida era un factor de riesgo independiente para el desarrollo de ROP y su gravedad. Pacientes y métodos: 718 prematuros supervivientes con peso al nacer (PN) ≤1.500g o edad gestacional (EG) ≤32 semanas (y 6 días), ingresados entre 2001 y 2008. Los objetivos de SaO2 durante estos años fueron mantenerla entre el 88 y el 93%. El tratamiento con EPO se inició a los 5–7 días de vida, a 250UI/kg/3 veces a la semana vía subcutánea, asociada a Fe 5–6mg/kg/día, hasta las 34 semanas de edad corregida o el alta. Resultados: 493 prematuros (68,7%) no presentaron ROP, 139 (19,4%) tuvieron una ROP grado 1, 50 (7,0%) una grado 2 y 36 (5,0%) una grado 3. 27 precisaron láser. Una mayor gravedad de la ROP se asoció con menor PN y EG, más patología neonatal y mayor agresividad terapéutica (duración de la oxigenoterapia o ventiloterapia, número de transfusiones de hematíes). Los factores de riesgo asociados de manera independiente y significativa con la presencia de cualquier estadio de ROP fueron: menor PN, ausencia de cesárea, administración de EPO y necesidad de transfusión de hematíes. La administración de EPO aumentó 2,4 veces el riesgo de ROP, pero la influencia de la EPO sólo se observó en la aparición de ROP grado 1 (odds ratio: 5,50). Conclusiones: La administración de EPO+Fe se asocia y quizás favorece la aparición de ROP grado 1 (AU)

Introduction: Erythropoietin (EPO) stimulates angiogenesis and may favour the appearance of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). The objective was to determine if EPO+Fe administered from the 5th day of life could be an independent risk factor for ROP appearance and its severity. Patients and method: The study included 718 preterm newborns with a birth weight ≤1,500g or a gestational age ≤32 weeks (and 6 days), admitted between 2001 and 2008. During these years, the target SaO2 was between 88% and 93%. EPO treatment began at 5–7 days of life, with a dose of 250 UI/Kg, 3 times a week, subcutaneously, together with Fe, 5–6mg/kg/day, both until 34 weeks of corrected age or discharge. Results: A total of 493 preterms (68.7%) did not have ROP, 139 (19.4%) had a grade 1 ROP, 50 (7.0%) a grade 2 ROP and 36 (5.0%) a grade 3 ROP. Laser therapy was required by 27 severe ROP was associated with lower birth weight and gestational age, more neonatal morbidity and a more aggressive treatment (duration of oxygen supplements or mechanical ventilation, number of blood transfusions). Risk factors independently and significantly associated with any ROP grade were: lower birth weight, no caesarean section, EPO administration and need for blood transfusion. EPO administration increased the risk of ROP by 2.4, but this only happened in case of grade 1 ROP (OR: 5.50). Conclusions: EPO+Fe administration is associated and perhaps stimulates the appearance of grade 1 ROP (AU)

Is there a role for autologous/placental red blood cell transfusions in the anemia of prematurity?

Because most extremely preterm infants with birth weight less than 1000 g need red blood cell transfusions, many attempts have been made to collect, process, and store placental blood (ie, umbilical cord blood) for autologous transfusions. Although it is feasible to do this, multiple problems in doing so including insufficient volumes collected, clotting, hemolysis, bacterial contamination, failure to significantly supplant need for allogeneic transfusions, and high costs have led many to question whether, on balance, autologous/placental red blood cell transfusion offers clinically significant benefits.

A management guideline to reduce the frequency of blood transfusion in very-low-birth-weight infants.

Very-low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants often require blood transfusions for anemia. Studies have investigated the preventative effect of delayed cord clamping, high-dose iron, and costly recombinant erythropoietin. As part of our unit clinical governance framework to improving patient care, we audited the effect of a preventative management guideline that combines delayed cord clamping for 30 seconds with early protein intake and early oral iron supplementation (6 mg/kg from days 7 to 10 of life, if milk feeds 60 mL/kg/d) combined with a restrictive transfusion policy in infants < 32 weeks' gestation and < 1500 g birth weight. Data on blood transfusions in VLBW infants during the first 6 weeks of life collected before the start of the new regimen (period I) were compared with data in consecutively born VLBW infants after the introduction of the management guideline (period II). Age (in days) when milk feeds and oral iron supplements were introduced was recorded. Statistical analysis used Wilcoxon signed-rank test. VLBW infants in period I ( N = 18, median birth weight 1001 g [727; 1158]) received a median of four transfusions (0.75; 9) compared with 1.5 (0.75; 5, P = 0.01) VLBW infant transfusions in period II ( N = 22, median birth weight 967 g [792; 1131]). Milk feeds of 60 mL/kg/d were achieved on median day 12 (6; to 16), and iron was introduced on median day 38 (21; to 44) in period I compared with milk feeds on day 9 (7; 15, P = 0.05) and oral iron on day 16 (11; 21, P < 0001) in period II. The combination of a 30-second delay in cord clamping, early protein and iron, and a change of transfusion thresholds reduced the number of blood transfusions by half.

[Infantile pyknocytosis: a rare form of neonatal hemolytic anemia. 5 case-studies]. / La pyknocytose infantile : une anémie néonatale mal connue à propos de 5cas.

UNLABELLED: Infantile pyknocytosis (IP) is a rare hematological entity of newborns. It is a form of hemolytic anemia with unusual red cell morphology: the red blood cells are distorted, irregular, and small with many projections. Spontaneous resolution usually occurs by 4-6months of age. OBSERVATION: We describe the clinical features and biological parameters of 5 cases of IP. The first symptoms were always early jaundice, which required phototherapy. Anemia was severe in all babies and red blood cell transfusion was needed. CONCLUSION: IP is a rare cause of neonatal anemia whose diagnosis is based on a careful peripheral blood smear examination. In our study, anemia was severe and required red blood cell transfusion. Ethnic specificity and familial occurrence are reported in our experience.

Rhesus haemolytic disease of the newborn: Postnatal management, associated morbidity and long-term outcome.

Rhesus haemolytic disease of the newborn can lead to complications such as hyperbilirubinaemia, kernicterus and anaemia. Postnatal management consists mainly of intensive phototherapy, exchange transfusion and blood transfusion. During the last decades, significant progress in prenatal care strategies for patients with Rhesus haemolytic disease has occurred. New prenatal management options have led to a remarkable reduction in perinatal mortality. As a result of the increase in perinatal survival, attention is now shifting towards short-term and long-term morbidity. This review focuses on the management of neonatal and paediatric complications associated with Rhesus haemolytic disease, discusses postnatal treatment options and summarizes the results of studies on short-term and long-term outcome.

Prediction of transfusions in extremely low-birthweight infants in the erythropoietin era.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of the present paper was to detect the clinical factors most predictive of red blood cell (RBC) transfusion in extremely low-birthweight (ELBW) infants in the recombinant human erythropoietin era. METHODS: Between 1995 and 2000, 66 ELBW infants were admitted to a level III neonatal intensive care unit. Fifty-four of 66 infants were eligible for enrollment in the present study. Infants were treated with erythropoietin 200 IU/kg per dose s.c. twice a week with 4-6 mg/kg per day iron supplement. RESULTS: The mean gestational age and birthweight were 26.5 +/- 2.1 weeks and 776 +/- 134 g, respectively. Ten of 54 ELBW infants (18.5%) died during the first 21 days. Eight of 10 dead infants (80.0%) and 27 of 44 surviving infants (61.4%) received one or more RBC transfusions. The overall requirement for RBC transfusions in the surviving infants was 3.0 +/- 3.2 per infant/hospital course (range: 0-9) . There were significant differences in gestational weeks, birthweight, initial hemoglobin value, 5 min Apgar score, phlebotomy loss, phlebotomy loss/birthweight, duration of mechanical ventilation, duration of oxygen supplement, and incidence of both intraventricular hemorrhage and chronic lung disease between the transfused and non-transfused group. The predictive variables, initial hemoglobin level (odds ratio [OR] 2.61; 1 g/dL), birthweight (OR 3.00; 100 g), and gestational week (OR 1.89; 1 week), were found to be most predictive for transfusion on logistic regression analysis. CONCLUSION: ELBW infants are still the population at greatest risk for repeated blood transfusions after introduction of erythropoietin treatment. If labor develops, it is often impossible to extend the pregnancy period, therefore efforts should be made to increase hemoglobin level at birth.

Efficacy, recovery, and safety of RBCs from autologous placental blood: clinical experience in 52 newborns.

BACKGROUND: In the present study, the efficacy, recovery, and safety of RBCs from autologous placental blood (PB-RBCs) were investigated. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A total of 52 newborns received transfusion with PB-RBCs. The number of newborns requiring no additional allogeneic RBCs was calculated. In 22 of these 52 neonates with a birth weight of 1000 to 2500 g, vital measures were performed during transfusion, and serum potassium levels were measured up to 3 days after transfusion. The results were compared with those of a matched control group given allogeneic RBC transfusions. RESULTS: All neonates of the study group with a birth weight of less than 1000 g, but only 59 percent those with a birth weight of 1000 to 2500 g and 58 percent of those requiring surgery directly after delivery needed allogeneic transfusions in addition to PB-RBCs. The mean Hb increase after RBC transfusion of 10 mL per kg of body weight was 3 g per dL per kg of body weight in both groups; the Hb decrease was accelerated in the placental blood group (0.32 vs. 0.24 g/dL/day; p < 0.05). There were no intergroup differences in the vital parameters. CONCLUSION: Our results show no difference in efficacy and safety between PB-RBC transfusion and allogeneic RBC transfusion. According to well-defined criteria, 40 percent of anemic neonates can be supported by autologous placental blood transfusions alone.

Effects of vitamin E supplementation during erythropoietin treatment of the anaemia of prematurity.

AIMS: To evaluate the effects of vitamin E supplementation on haemoglobin concentration and the requirement for transfusion in premature infants treated with erythropoietin and iron. METHODS: Randomised, double blind, placebo controlled trial. Thirty infants

Immunoglobulin infusion for isoimmune haemolytic jaundice in neonates.

BACKGROUND: Exchange transfusion and phototherapy have traditionally been used to treat jaundice and avoid the associated neurological complications. Exchange transfusion is not without risk and intravenous immunoglobulin has been suggested as an alternative therapy for isoimmune haemolytic jaundice to reduce the need for exchange transfusion. OBJECTIVES: To assess whether the use of intravenous immunoglobulin, in newborn infants with isoimmune haemolytic jaundice, is effective in reducing the need for exchange transfusion. SEARCH STRATEGY: The search strategy of the Cochrane Neonatal Review group was used. Searches were made of MEDLINE 1966-2002, EMBASE Drugs and Pharmacology 1990-2002, Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, The Cochrane Library, Issue 1, 2002, expert informants, review articles, cross references, and hand searching of abstracts and conference proceedings of the annual meetings of The Society for Pediatric Research 1990-2001 and The European Society for Paediatric Research 1990-2001. SELECTION CRITERIA: All randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials of the use of intravenous immunoglobulin in the treatment of isoimmune haemolytic disease were considered. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: The standard methods of the Cochrane Collaboration and its Neonatal Review Group were used. Studies were assessed for inclusion and quality by two reviewers working independently, with the second reviewer blinded to trial author, institution and journal of publication. Data were extracted independently by the two reviewers. Any differences of opinion were discussed and a consensus reached. Investigators were contacted for additional or missing information. For categorical outcomes, the relative risk (RR), risk difference (RD) and the number needed to treat (NNT) were calculated. For continuous variables, the weighted mean difference (WMD) was calculated. MAIN RESULTS: Seven studies were identified. Three of these fulfilled the inclusion criteria and included a total of 189 infants. Term and preterm infants and infants with rhesus and ABO incompatibility were included. The use of exchange transfusion decreased significantly in the immunoglobulin treated group (typical RR 0.28, 95% CI 0.17, 0.47; typical RD -0.37, 95% CI -0.49, -0.26; NNT 2.7). The mean number of exchange transfusions per infant was also significantly lower in the immunoglobulin treated group (WMD -0.52, 95% CI -0.70, -0.35). None of the studies assessed long term outcomes. REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS: Although the results show a significant reduction in the need for exchange transfusion in those treated with intravenous immunoglobulin, the applicability of the results is limited. The number of studies and infants included is small and none of the three included studies was of high quality. The protocols of two of the studies mandated the use of early exchange transfusion, limiting the generalizability of the results. Further well designed studies are needed before routine use of intravenous immunoglobulin can be recommended for the treatment of isoimmune haemolytic jaundice.