Vitamin E-dependent anemia in a premature infant

Reported is a case of a premature infant who developed a well documented hemolytic anemia which responded to vitamin E therapy. The infant developed the syndrome while receiving an artificial formula containing iron and vitamin E, plus iron supplementation. The infant had a feeding problem which may have complicated absorption of vitamin E. It is suggested that premature infants who are formula fed should not receive iron supplement until they have doubled their birth weight or have a hemoglobin concentration of less than 10 mg%. Premature infants should receive supplemental vitamin E if they are not breast fed.