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Updated: May 18, 2026

Megakaryocyte Differentiation and Platelet Formation from Human Cord Blood-derived CD34+ Cells
Published on: December 27, 2017
Neonatal thrombocytopenia and platelets transfusion
Anil K Gupta1, Sudarshan Kumari, Abhishek Singhal
1Department of Transfusion Medicine, Centre for Newborn Care, Delhi, India.
Neonatal thrombocytopenia affects 16.7% of NICU admissions. Low birth weight, maternal hypertension, IUGR, and critical illnesses are linked to low platelet counts, guiding transfusion protocols.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Hematology
Background:
- Thrombocytopenia is common in neonates during hospitalization.
- Platelet transfusions are frequently administered, potentially leading to unnecessary use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze neonatal thrombocytopenia prevalence and its clinical associations.
- To inform guidelines for platelet transfusion in neonates, reducing donor exposure.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of platelet counts in 870 neonates admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
- Evaluation of clinical factors associated with thrombocytopenia.
Main Results:
- 16.7% (146/870) of neonates presented with thrombocytopenia.
- Low birth weight, maternal hypertension, and intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) were significantly associated with thrombocytopenia.
- Sepsis, gastrointestinal issues, respiratory problems, and vasopressor use correlated with lower platelet counts.
Conclusions:
- Specific risk factors for neonatal thrombocytopenia identified, including low birth weight and maternal hypertension.
- Neonates with IUGR and severe illnesses require close monitoring for thrombocytopenia.
- 16.40% of thrombocytopenic neonates received platelet transfusions during NICU stay.
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