Coagulation profile in healthy Nigerian neonates

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Hematology
• Pediatric Coagulation Studies
• Clinical Biochemistry

Background:

• Coagulation factor levels and screening tests in neonates are critical for understanding hemostasis.
• Previous data on coagulation profiles in Nigerian neonates is limited, hindering accurate clinical assessment.
• Gestational age significantly influences neonatal coagulation parameters.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the coagulation profile in Nigerian preterm and term neonates.
• To compare neonatal coagulation parameters with those of older infants and adults.
• To establish reference ranges for coagulation factors in healthy Nigerian neonates.

Main Methods:

• Screening coagulation tests, including prothrombin time (PT) and partial thromboplastin time with kaolin (PTTK), were performed.
• Concentrations of Factor VIII: C and fibrinogen were measured.
• 100 healthy neonates were classified by gestational age (28–30, 31–36, 37–42 weeks) and compared to controls.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in PT, PTTK, Factor VIII: C, and fibrinogen levels were observed across all neonatal gestational age groups compared to controls.
• Neonates demonstrated lower levels of certain coagulation factors, indicating a relative hypocagulable state.
• This study provides the first documented coagulation profile for Nigerian neonates.

Conclusions:

• Newborn infants exhibit a relative hypocagulable state, potentially increasing bleeding tendencies.
• The established ranges serve as a standard for evaluating coagulation in healthy Nigerian neonates.
• This data is crucial for diagnosing and managing bleeding disorders in neonates.