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Published on: August 25, 2022
Association between hematocrit and cranial MRI abnormalities in neonatal hyperbilirubinemia
Ting Liu1, Liang Wang2, Rufeng Ji1
1Department of Pediatric, Nanjing Lishui People's Hospital, Zhongda Hospital Lishui Branch, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.
Frontiers in Pediatrics
|June 15, 2026
Summary
In neonates with jaundice, higher hematocrit (HCT) levels are linked to an increased risk of cranial MRI abnormalities. This finding suggests HCT may be a useful biomarker for predicting these abnormalities.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Radiology
- Biomarkers
Background:
- The relationship between hematocrit (HCT) and cranial MRI abnormalities in neonates is controversial and lacks sufficient evidence.
- Existing data is inadequate to establish a clear association.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between HCT and cranial MRI abnormalities in neonates with hyperbilirubinemia (NHB).
- To determine if HCT is a predictive factor for brain imaging abnormalities in this population.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective cross-sectional study involving 410 neonates with hyperbilirubinemia.
- Analysis of neonatal blood parameters, maternal prenatal data, and cranial MRI findings.
- Logistic regression and smooth curve fitting were employed for statistical analysis.
Main Results:
- A 1% increase in HCT was associated with a 6% increased risk of cranial MRI abnormalities after adjusting for confounders.
- No significant interactions were found in subgroup analyses based on sex, delivery mode, or gestational diabetes mellitus.
Conclusions:
- Elevated HCT levels in NHB are significantly associated with an increased risk of cranial MRI abnormalities.
- Hematocrit may function as a potential risk factor and a relevant biomarker for cranial MRI abnormalities in neonates.
