Are thrombocytopenia and platelet transfusions associated with major bleeding in preterm neonates? A systematic review

Over 75% of severely thrombocytopenic preterm neonates receive platelet transfusions to prevent bleeding, but transfusion guidelines are based mainly on expert opinion. The aim of this review was to investigate whether platelet counts or transfusions are associated with major bleeding in preterm neonates.We performed a systematic search of the EMBASE and MEDLINE databases until December 2017. We included randomized trials, cohort and case control studies. (Prospero: CRD42015013399).We screened 8734 abstracts and 1225 fulltexts, identifying 36 eligible studies.

Source: Blood Reviews - October 8, 2018 Category: Hematology Authors: S.F. Fustolo-Gunnink, E.J. Huijssen-Huisman, J.G. van der Bom, F.M.A. van Hout, S. Makineli, E. Lopriore, K. Fijnvandraat Tags: Review Source Type: research