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Published on: July 16, 2011
Double blind trial of recombinant human erythropoietin in preterm infants
A J Emmerson1, H J Coles, C M Stern
1United Medical School, Guy's Hospital, London.
Insights
Recombinant human erythropoietin (r-HuEpo) effectively prevents anemia in premature infants. This treatment significantly reduced transfusion needs and stimulated red blood cell production.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Hematology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Premature infants often develop anemia of prematurity.
- This condition can necessitate blood transfusions, posing risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of recombinant human erythropoietin (r-HuEpo) in preventing anemia of prematurity.
- To assess the impact of r-HuEpo on transfusion requirements and erythropoiesis markers.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind study involving 24 infants (27-33 weeks gestation).
- Infants received either r-HuEpo (50-150 U subcutaneously twice weekly) or placebo from 7 days of age until discharge.
Main Results:
- Significant increase in reticulocyte count in the r-HuEpo group.
- Reduced transfusion rates: 47% in r-HuEpo group vs. 87% in placebo group.
- Increased red cell folate, decreased ferritin, and higher hemoglobin F levels observed with r-HuEpo.
Conclusions:
- r-HuEpo is effective in stimulating erythropoiesis in premature infants.
- r-HuEpo significantly reduces the need for blood transfusions for anemia of prematurity.
Abstract:
Twenty four infants between 27 and 33 weeks' gestation were recruited into a double blind study to investigate the use of recombinant human erythropoietin (r-HuEpo) for the prevention of anaemia of prematurity. Between 50 and 150 U of r-HuEpo (n = 16) or placebo was administered subcutaneously twice a week from 7 days of age until discharge. There was a significant increase in the reticulocyte count in infants receiving r-HuEpo sustained from the second week of treatment until discharge compared with placebo. There was a reduction in the number of transfusions required in the r-HuEpo group with only 47% requiring a transfusion compared with 87% in the placebo group. During treatment with r-HuEpo there was a significant rise in the red cell folate concentration, a significant fall in the ferritin concentration, and a significantly higher percentage of haemoglobin F at discharge suggesting active erythropoiesis. The study provides strong evidence for the efficacy of r-HuEpo in stimulating erythropoiesis and reducing the requirement for transfusions for anaemia of prematurity.
