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Prophylactic ethamsylate for periventricular haemorrhage
Archives of Disease in Childhood
|January 1, 1984
Insights
Ethamsylate prophylaxis for very low birthweight infants significantly lowered the rate of periventricular haemorrhage. This treatment also reduced follow-up abnormalities and the need for ventriculoperitoneal shunts in survivors.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Pediatric Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Periventricular haemorrhage (PVH) is a significant concern in very low birthweight (VLBW) infants.
- PVH can lead to severe neurological complications and long-term disabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of ethamsylate as a prophylactic agent against PVH in VLBW infants.
- To assess the impact of ethamsylate on neurodevelopmental outcomes and the requirement for surgical intervention.
Main Methods:
- A study involving VLBW infants receiving ethamsylate for PVH prophylaxis.
- Follow-up assessments were conducted to monitor for PVH, neurological abnormalities, and shunt insertions.
Main Results:
- Ethamsylate prophylaxis significantly decreased the incidence of PVH among surviving VLBW infants.
- A notable reduction in follow-up abnormalities and ventriculoperitoneal shunt insertions was observed in the treatment group.
Conclusions:
- Ethamsylate demonstrates a promising role in preventing PVH in VLBW infants.
- Prophylactic ethamsylate may improve neurodevelopmental outcomes and reduce the need for surgical management of hydrocephalus in this vulnerable population.
Abstract:
Drug prophylaxis with ethamsylate for periventricular haemorrhage in very low birthweight infants significantly reduced the incidence of periventricular haemorrhage in survivors. A reduction in abnormalities at follow up and in insertion of ventriculoperitoneal shunts was also noted.