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Semin Thromb Hemost 1995; 21(3): 276-293
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1000649
Copyright © 1995 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Neonatal Thrombocytopenia

Diane George, James B. Bussel
  • From the Department of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, Cornell University Medical College, New York, New York.
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Publication History

Publication Date:
06 February 2008 (online)

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Abstract

The workup and management of neonatal thrombocytopenia is a problem commonly encountered by pediatric hematologists and neonatologists. The incidence of this problem has been estimated to range as high as 1% or more for healthy term infants to 20% of newborns admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit. An expeditious approach to this problem and timely intervention when necessary can prevent or attenuate the potentially serious consequences of this problem, most notably that of intracranial hemorrhage. In this article we discuss the incidence and causes of this problem, and present an algorithm for an approach to the neonate with thrombocytopenia. This will include consideration of fetal thrombocytopenia and its management, that is, in repeat pregnancies in women with alloimmune thrombocytopenia. Case discussions will be used to illustrate the algorithm.

Key words:

Thrombocytopenia - intracranial hemorrhage - neonates - fetus - immune thrombocytopenic purpura

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