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Reticulated platelet values in normal and thrombocytopenic neonates
S M Peterec1, S A Brennan, H M Rinder
1Department of Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA.
The Journal of Pediatrics
|August 1, 1996
Summary
Reticulated platelets (RPs) are elevated in neonates with immune-mediated thrombocytopenia. These findings establish normal RP values in newborns and aid in diagnosing neonatal thrombocytopenia.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Hematology
- Platelet Physiology
- Thrombocytopenia Research
Background:
- Reticulated platelets (RPs), characterized by high RNA content, increase with platelet destruction in adults.
- Elevated RPs are observed in adults with thrombocytopenia due to increased platelet destruction.
Purpose of the Study:
- Determine normal reticulated platelet (RP) percentages in neonates at birth.
- Investigate if neonates with thrombocytopenia from platelet destruction show increased RP percentages.
Main Methods:
- RP percentages were measured at birth in 89 neonates without thrombocytopenia across different gestational ages.
- RP levels were assessed in neonates with immune thrombocytopenia and one with decreased platelet production.
Main Results:
- Neonates younger than 30 weeks gestation had significantly higher RP percentages (8.8% +/- 5.1%) compared to older neonates.
- Term neonates with immune thrombocytopenia exhibited significantly higher RP percentages (38.3% +/- 23.1%) than controls, with no overlap.
- A neonate with decreased platelet production showed a low RP percentage (1.5%) and reduced absolute RP count.
Conclusions:
- Preliminary data establish normal RP percentages for term and preterm neonates at birth.
- Elevated RP percentages are demonstrated in neonates with immune-mediated platelet destruction.
- RP values may assist in evaluating the causes of neonatal thrombocytopenia.