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Modified bleeding time in the infant
M Andrew1, V Castle, L Mitchell
1Department of Pediatrics, St. Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
Insights
This study modified the template bleeding time test for newborns. The test effectively identified prolonged bleeding caused by indomethacin and thrombocytopenia in infants.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Hematology
- Pediatric Surgery
Background:
- The template bleeding time (BT) is a common diagnostic tool.
- Assessing BT in newborns presents unique challenges.
- Standard BT protocols may require modification for neonatal application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a modified template bleeding time (BT) for neonatal use.
- To determine the sensitivity of the modified BT to specific clinical factors.
- To assess the impact of indomethacin and thrombocytopenia on neonatal BT.
Main Methods:
- A modified template bleeding time method was developed for neonates.
- The study included 242 newborn infants.
- Sensitivity was tested against antibiotics, indomethacin, illness, and thrombocytopenia.
Main Results:
- Both indomethacin and thrombocytopenia significantly prolonged the BT.
- The BT prolongation due to thrombocytopenia was reversible.
- Platelet count elevation corrected the bleeding time in affected infants.
Conclusions:
- The modified template bleeding time is a sensitive indicator in newborns.
- It can detect bleeding abnormalities related to indomethacin and thrombocytopenia.
- This modified BT aids in managing neonatal hemostatic disorders.
Abstract:
The present authors developed a modified template bleeding time for use in the newborn infant. The sensitivity of the bleeding time to the presence of antibiotics, indomethacin, generalized illness, and thrombocytopenia was tested in 242 infants. Both indomethacin and thrombocytopenia similarly prolonged the BT, and the latter could be corrected by raising the platelet count.