A. Kovač
Razvojna ambulanta, Zdravstveni dom Kranj, Kranj, Slovenija

D. Paro Panjan
Klinični oddelek za neonatologijo, Pediatrična klinika, Univerzitetni klinični center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenija

Abstract

Thrombocytopenia is one of the most common haematological problems in neonates. According to some studies, thrombocytopenia occurs in 1 to 5% of newborns. However, in intensive care units 20 to 35% of newborns can be affected. Thrombocytopenia can be caused by impaired platelet production, increased platelet consumption, splenic sequestration, or a combination of all three mechanisms. The article presents the classification of thrombocytopenia according to maternal, placental and neonatal conditions. Infections are one of the most common causes of thrombocytopenia. However, in otherwise healthy newborns, alloimmune thrombocytopenia constitutes the most frequent cause of severe thrombocytopenia. The most serious complication associated with severe thrombocytopenia is intracranial haemorrhage. In treating the newborn with thrombocytopenia, it is crucial to consider the numerous aetiological possibilities in the differential diagnosis. The decision on treatment should be based on the evaluation of the whole clinical picture. The final part of the article presents an analysis of treated newborns with thrombocytopenia in the Neonatal Department, University Children's Hospital in Ljubljana, between January 2000 and April 2005.

Key words: thrombocytopenia, newborns, clinical picture, diagnosis, treatment.