"Outcomes And Progression: A Study on Neonatal Thrombocytopenia Including Immediate and Short-Term Follow-Up Observations"

Abstract

Neonatal thrombocytopenia is a common hematological abnormality in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). A study was conducted to estimate the frequency, etiological characteristics and predisposing factors of thrombocytopenia in the NICU. In the study, it was determined that the prevalence of thrombocytopenia was 39% and the prevalence of severe thrombocytopenia was 11%. The most common cause is sepsis, and maternal peripartum bleeding is associated with neonatal thrombocytopenia. Neonatal factors associated with thrombocytopenia include age at presentation, sepsis, DIC, NEC, candiduria, and assisted breathing. Gestational age, IUGR, and perinatal asphyxia were not associated with neonatal thrombocytopenia. Transfusion was not associated with thrombocytopenia, probably due to the use of fresh blood. Signs and symptoms associated with thrombocytopenia include bleeding, purpura, and delayed capillary refill. Neonatal thrombocytopenia requires a longer hospital stay and the need for supplemental oxygen and intravenous fluids. Severe thrombocytopenic newborns have a higher mortality rate than non-thrombocytopenic newborns. Low platelet count is a risk factor for adverse outcomes, and whole blood transfusion has been shown to be an effective alternative to platelet transfusion in the treatment of severe neonatal thrombocytopenia.