Survival after massive pulmonary haemorrhage in the neonatal period

4 babies with massive pulmonary haemorrhage were seen in an 18 month period. 2 had severe rhesus maemolytic disease, and the other 2 severe respiratory problems. There was evidence of a profound respiratory acidosis and hypoxia prior to the onset of the haemorrhage. 2 babies survived the episode and subsequently developed normally. Adequate ventilation and attendance to the treatment of blood coagulation disorders may have been a factor in their survival.