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Measuring Deformability and Red Cell Heterogeneity in Blood by Ektacytometry
Published on: January 12, 2018
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Anemia, red blood cell transfusions, and necrotizing enterocolitis
Akhil Maheshwari1, Ravi M Patel2, Robert D Christensen3
1Department of Pediatrics, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida; Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida; Department of Community and Family Health, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida.
Seminars in Pediatric Surgery
|December 26, 2017
Summary
Red blood cell (RBC) transfusions are linked to necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in premature infants. The risk of NEC may increase with severe anemia and following RBC transfusions.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Hematology
Background:
- Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious condition affecting premature infants.
- A temporal association between red blood cell (RBC) transfusions and NEC has been observed in clinical studies.
- This association appears more pronounced in infants with severe anemia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and summarize clinical evidence on the link between RBC transfusions and NEC.
- To examine the role of RBC transfusions in the pathogenesis of NEC.
- To investigate the contribution of anemia severity to transfusion-associated NEC.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing clinical studies and literature.
- Analysis of temporal associations between RBC transfusions and NEC onset.
- Evaluation of the impact of anemia severity on NEC risk post-transfusion.
Main Results:
- Multiple studies indicate a significant temporal link between RBC transfusions and NEC in very low-birth weight infants.
- Up to one-third of NEC cases in these infants may occur within 24-48 hours post-transfusion.
- The risk of NEC appears elevated in infants receiving transfusions for severe anemia.
Conclusions:
- RBC transfusions and the severity of underlying anemia are potential contributors to NEC pathogenesis.
- A specific subtype of NEC, termed 'transfusion/anemia-associated NEC,' is suggested by the evidence.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms and optimize transfusion strategies.
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