Thrombocytopenia in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Role of Platelet Transfusion

Abstract

Background: To determine frequency of
thrombocytopenia in NICU and to find outcome of
neonates receiving multiple platelet transfusion
Methods: In this cross sectional study, neonates
with thrombocytopenia , admitted to neonatal
intensive care unit (NICU) were included. Two
milliliter of blood was collected in EDTA bottle and
kept on a roller mixer for mixing until a platelet
count done by automated haematology analyzer.
Stained film was examined under light microscope
to rule out platelet clumps and to ensure that
platelets had been spread evenly before actual count
was done. At least two platelet readings were taken
during admission. Platelets were transfused to
neonates at platelet count less than 50,000. Any
mortality in neonates receiving platelet transfusion
was recorded during hospital stay.
Results:The mean age of neonates was 2.92±2.20
days, 63.2% were male and 36.8% were females.
Thrombocytopenia was present in 41.4%, percentage
of neonates. Platelet transfusions were administered
to 12.7% and recorded mortality was 4.5%.
Conclusion: Thrombocytopenia in neonates at
NICU is higher while the outcome of neonates
receiving platelet transfusion is appreciable.