Diagnosis and management of maternal thrombocytopenia in pregnancy

Is it possible to predict morbidities in neonates born to mothers with immune thrombocytopenic purpura?: A retrospective cross-sectional study

Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) comprises ~1% to 4% of thrombocytopenia cases during pregnancy. Factors predicting neonatal thrombocytopenia and associated morbidities due to maternal ITP are unclear. The present study aimed to assess the neonatal outcomes of pregnant women with ITP. Fifty-five pregnant women with ITP and their babies, born between January/2013 and April/2021, were retrospectively reviewed. Maternal and neonatal thrombocytopenia cases other than ITP were excluded from the study. Physical examination, blood count, and cranial/abdominal ultrasonography findings of the newborns were recorded. Neonatal thrombocytopenia was defined as a platelet count < 150 × 109/L. Relationship between neonatal thrombocytopenia and maternal factors was investigated. Thrombocytopenia was detected in 17/55 babies (30.9%), and 8/17 (47.1%) had symptoms of bleeding, all but one being mild bleeding. There was a significant correlation between neonatal platelet counts of < 100 × 109/L and maternal splenectomy history. Incidence of moderate and severe thrombocytopenia was higher (statistically insignificant) in neonates of mothers with ITP. No significant correlation was determined between maternal and neonatal platelet counts. There was a weak insignificant correlation between platelet counts of neonates of mothers with or without thrombocytopenia. A significant correlation was found between the presence of splenectomy before delivery in the mother and a platelet count of < 100 × 109/L in the neonate. Moderate and severe thrombocytopenia was higher in neonates of mothers diagnosed with ITP before pregnancy and needed treatment during pregnancy and/or delivery, but the difference was insignificant. Close follow-up of babies born to mothers with ITP after birth is crucial since there is no significant prediction criterion for developing neonatal thrombocytopenia and associated morbidities.

Magnitude and associated factors of thrombocytopenia, among pregnant women at Mizan Tepi university teaching hospital south west Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Thrombocytopenia in pregnancy is a common multifactorial abnormality of the hematological system, next to anemia. It leads to more increased risk of bleeding during delivery, labour, or the postpartum period. Despite being a significant public health concern, there are limited studies done concerning thrombocytopenia during pregnancy.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the magnitude and associated factors of thrombocytopenia among pregnant women at Mizan Tepi University Teaching Hospital from September 2023 to November 2023.

METHODS

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was carried out on 230 systematic randomly selected pregnant women who attended antenatal visits from September 2023 to November 2023 G.C using data collection tools. The pretested structured questionnaires were employed to obtain clinical, nutritional, and sociodemographic information. Additionally, three millilitres of venous blood were collected from each participant and analyzed using a Sysmex hematology analyzer. The data was entered into Epidata version 4.6 and analyzed using STATA version 14. Descriptive statistics were computed, and logistic regression was used to identify predictors with a significance level of less than 0.05.

RESULTS

Two hundred thirty pregnant women participated in the study. Among study participants, the magnitude of thrombocytopenia was 55(24.35%) with 32 (57.14%) mild, 19 (33.93%) moderate, and 5 (8.93%) severe thrombocytopenia. The determinant factors which shown significant association were Malaria parasite infection (AOR 9.27 at 95% CI 7.42, 10.87), one-year Inter-birth interval (AOR 1.7 at 95% CI 1.24, 2.14), History of abortion (AOR 3.94 95% CI 3.13, 4.86), History of hypertension (AOR 3.12 95% CI 1.56, 4.12), HIV infection (AOR 1.81 95% CI 1.32.2.52) and HBV infection (AOR 3.0 95% CI 2.82, 3.34).

CONCLUSION

Thrombocytopenia is a public health problem and mild type of thrombocytopenia was the most predominant. The determinant factors that showed significant association with thrombocytopenia were Malaria Parasitic infection, one-year Inter-birth interval, History of abortion, History of hypertension, HIV infection, and HBV infection. Therefore, pregnant women should be continuously screened for thrombocytopenia to avoid excessive bleeding. Increasing Inter-birth interval, preventing abortion as well as timely diagnosis and treatment of underlying causes such as malaria infection, hypertension, HBV, and HIV is important to reduce the burden of thrombocytopenia.

Magnitude of Thrombocytopenia and Associated Factors among Pregnant Women Attending the Antenatal Care Service Unit of Wachemo University Nigist Ellen Mohammed Comprehensive Specialized Hospital Hosanna, Southern Ethiopia

Background

Thrombocytopenia is the second most common hematological disorder in pregnancy after anemia worldwide and affects 7-8% of all pregnancies. Pregnant women with thrombocytopenia have complications of excessive bleeding during or after childbirth, exudation at the cesarean section, and neonatal thrombocytopenia. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to assess the magnitude of thrombocytopenia and its associated factors among pregnant women attending the Antenatal Care Service Unit of Wachemo University Nigist Ellen Mohammed Comprehensive Specialized Hospital Hosanna, Southern Ethiopia.

Materials and Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from June 1 to August 30, 2022, involving 209 consecutive pregnant women who came to the hospital during the study period for antenatal care follow-up. Sociodemographic, reproductive, and other clinical data were collected using a structured questionnaire. A four-milliliter venous blood specimen was collected for complete blood analysis and peripheral blood smear. The data were analyzed by using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistical analysis and bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. A P value ≤0.05 was considered to indicate statistical significance.

Results

The overall magnitude of thrombocytopenia among pregnant women was 14.8% (95% CI: 10, 19.6). The prevalence of mild, moderate, and severe thrombocytopenia was 77.4%, 16.1%, and 6.5%, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that rural residence (AOR = 2.6 and 95% CI = 1.02, 7.12), cigarette smoking (AOR = 8.4 and 95% CI = 1.86, 38), anemia (AOR = 8.3 and 95% CI = 2.7, 25.6), and alcohol consumption (AOR = 8.2 and 95% CI = 2.17-31) were significantly independent factors associated with the development of thrombocytopenia.

Conclusion

The magnitude of thrombocytopenia in this study was 14.8%. Rural residence, cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, and anemia were significantly associated with thrombocytopenia. Therefore, the platelet count should be routinely determined during antenatal care visits for proper diagnosis and to minimize bleeding during and/or after childbirth.

Verification of bile acid determination method and establishing reference intervals for biochemical and haematological parameters in third-trimester pregnant women

OBJECTIVES

The aims of this study were to verify the bile acids (BA) method and to establish reference intervals (RIs) for bile acids (BA) and biochemical and haematological parameters in Croatian pregnant women.

METHODS

BA spectrophotometric method verification was performed on Siemens Atellica Solution CH 930 automated analyser using Sentinel reagent. Stability, precision, trueness, linearity, and RIs, as well as lipemia interference were tested according to CLSI guidelines. BA, biochemical, and haematological parameters were measured in serum (BA, biochemical) and whole blood (haematological) samples of fasting healthy third-trimester pregnant women from Croatia (n=121). The establishment of the RIs was done a priori according to the CLSI EP28-A3C:2010 guideline. Selected reference individuals' data were analysed using parametric, non-parametric, and robust methods.

RESULTS

Stability study showed that BA are stable in serum samples for 2 days at 20 °C, 14 days at 4-8 °C, and 22 days at -20 °C. The precision study and adult RIs verification met the criteria. Linearity was verified for the concentration range of 3.5-172.1 μmol/L whereas the lipemia interference test showed a positive bias (%) in BA concentration. The determined reference limits generally exhibited better precision for haematological parameters, being lower than the upper recommended value 0.2, unlike biochemical parameters. Haematological parameters showed notable differences between pregnant and non-pregnant women, while many biochemical parameters' RIs remained similar. Only ALT and GGT showed lower non-comparable RI upper limits in the population pregnant women.

CONCLUSIONS

Spectrophotometric BA method showed satisfactory performance and all examined parameters were within the set criteria. Moreover, RIs for key biochemical and haematological parameters, including BAs, have been established for the first time in the population of Croatian pregnant women.

The investigation of thrombocytopenia after transcatheter occlusion of patent ductus arteriosus

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the risk factors for thrombocytopenia after transcatheter occlusion operation of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA).

METHOD

Retrospective analyses were conducted using clinical data from 106 patients with PDA who underwent transcatheter closure operations at Henan Provincial Chest Hospital, Zhengzhou University, from January 2018 to June 2022. The study compared the changes in platelet counts before and after the operation, and investigated the risk factors for thrombocytopenia following PDA closure in different groups and layers.

RESULTS

The platelet count of patients with PDA significantly decreased after undergoing transcatheter PDA occlusion. Logistic regression analysis revealed that factors such as PDA diameter, occluder diameter, pressure difference on the two sides of the occluder, and residual shunt were associated with an increased risk of thrombocytopenia following PDA occlusion. Specifically, the size of the occluder and the pressure difference between the two sides of the occluder were found to have a negative correlation with the postoperative platelet count. Further subgroup analysis demonstrated that the incidence of total thrombocytopenia was significantly higher in the large PDA group compared to the small-medium PDA groups.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that occluder diameter, the pressure difference between the two sides of the occluder, and the residual shunt are major risk factors correlated with the incidence of postoperative thrombocytopenia. However, a multicenter and long-term prospective study is required to further evaluate the prognosis of PDA patients with thrombocytopenia after transcatheter occlusion.

Thrombocytopenia and associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care at Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Eastern Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study

Thrombocytopenia (TCP) is the second most common hematological change during pregnancy and is considered as a major source of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Despite its effects to morbidity and mortality, it is frequently ignored or disregarded, particularly in resource-limited nations. Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of thrombocytopenia and associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care at Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized University Hospital, Eastern Ethiopia from June 20 to August 30, 2022. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 199 pregnant women selected through a systematic sampling technique. Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethics Review Committee of Haramaya University. Data related to sociodemographic and reproductive variables were collected using structured questionnaires. Four milliliters of venous blood were collected from each study participant and a complete blood cell count was determined using UniCel DxH 800 hematology analyzer. Logistic regression analysis was done to assess the association between TCP and independent variables and P < .05 was considered statistically significant. In this study, the prevalence of TCP was 14.1% (95% CI: 9.6-19.7). Of them, 10 (35.7%), 12 (42.9%), and 4 (21.4%) had mild, moderate, and severe TCP, respectively. Having more than 3 children (adjusted odds ratio, AOR = 7.90, 95% CI: 2.60, 24.3), no antenatal care follow-up (AOR = 7.90, 95% CI: 2.40-26.2), being in the second and third trimester (AOR = 6.90, 95% CI: 1.70, 28.9 and AOR = 5.04, 95% CI: 1.12, 22.7, respectively), and history of heavy menstrual bleeding (AOR = 4.03, 95% CI: 1.25, 13.1) were significantly associated with TCP. TCP is a public health problem among pregnant women in the study area. Having more than 3 children, lack of antenatal care follow-up, being in the second and third trimesters, and having history of heavy menstrual bleeding was significantly associated with TCP. As a result, regular platelet count monitoring and appropriate intervention approaches based on identified predictors should be explored to mitigate adverse outcomes in pregnant women.

Perinatal Transmission of Dengue Infection among Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever Outbreaks in Southern Vietnam: The First Case Managed at Tu Du Hospital and Review of Literature

Dengue hemorrhagic fever is a high-risk pathology in pregnancy, leading to an increased mortality rate for both the mother and baby. Perinatal transmission of dengue infection may occur during the labor stage of the febrile phase, despite its extreme rarity. In the present case, a young female patient with pregnancy at 39 weeks 3 days of gestational age was hospitalized because of dengue hemorrhagic fever. Upon monitoring, her platelet count gradually decreased to a very low of 13,000 mm3 on the third day of fever. However, her platelet count increased soon afterwards. On the eighth day of admission, she was delivered by emergency cesarean section due to acute fetal distress. The female neonate was promptly assessed by the pediatric team upon cesarean surgery. The neonate was diagnosed with vertical transmission of dengue infection based on positive dengue virus nonstructural protein 1 antigen, and low platelet count was found on the first day postpartum. When there is a high suspicion of perinatal transmission, closely monitoring the newborn helps to avoid the adverse outcomes and mortality for the infant. Herein, we thoroughly report an unusual case of maternal-fetal transmission of dengue during pregnancy at our maternity hospital.

Improving diagnostic accuracy in pregnancy with individualised, gestational age-specific reference intervals

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Investigations in pregnancy should be interpreted using pregnancy-specific reference intervals (RIs). However, because of the progressive nature of pregnancy, even pregnancy-specific RIs may not be equally representative at different gestations. We proposed that gestational age-specific RIs may increase diagnostic accuracy over those with fixed limits.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The trajectory of platelets was mapped in 32,778 pregnant women, using 116,798 results. Then we evaluated the accuracy with which a low measurement in early pregnancy (<3^rd centile) predicted thrombocytopaenia at term, compared to the existing limit (<150 x10⁹/L).

RESULTS

Platelets fell by 14.8% between 8-40 weeks. Platelets below the 3^rd centile before 20 weeks predicted thrombocytopaenia at term (<100 x10⁹/L) with a significantly greater degree of accuracy than a fixed limit (AUC 0.86 vs. 0.76, p=0.004).

CONCLUSION

Pregnancy-specific RIs can be defined using routinely collected hospital data, and the abundance of such freely available data enables a detailed investigation of temporal changes throughout gestation. Individualised RIs offer improved accuracy profiles, over and above those already derived specifically from pregnant populations. Clinicians should consider how this may be used to improve diagnostic accuracy for biomarkers used in current clinical practice, and those yet to be defined.

Consensus guidelines for the management of adult immune thrombocytopenia in Australia and New Zealand

Introduction

The absence of high quality evidence for basic clinical dilemmas in immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) underlines the need for contemporary guidelines relevant to the local treatment context. ITP is diagnosed by exclusions, with a hallmark laboratory finding of isolated thrombocytopenia.

Main recommendations

Bleeding, family and medication histories and a review of historical investigations are required to gauge the bleeding risk and possible hereditary syndromes. Beyond the platelet count, the decision to treat is affected by individual bleeding risk, disease stage, side effects of treatment, concomitant medications, and patient preference. Treatment is aimed at achieving a platelet count > 20 × 10⁹/L, and avoidance of severe bleeding. Steroids are the standard first line treatment, with either 6‐week courses of tapering prednisone or repeated courses of high dose dexamethasone providing equivalent efficacy. Intravenous immunoglobulin can be used periprocedurally or as first line therapy in combination with steroids.

Changes in management as a result of this statement

There is no consensus on choice of second line treatments. Options with the most robust evidence include splenectomy, rituximab and thrombopoietin receptor agonists. Other therapies include azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil, dapsone and vinca alkaloids. Given that up to one‐third of patients achieve a satisfactory haemostatic response, splenectomy should be delayed for at least 12 months if possible. In life‐threatening bleeding, we recommend platelet transfusions to achieve haemostasis, along with intravenous immunoglobulin and high dose steroids.

Severe thrombocytopenia in pregnancy: a retrospective study

: Thrombocytopenia is defined as a platelet count less than 150 000/μl and it is the most common hematologic disease after anemia in pregnancy. This study aims to investigate pregnant women with severe thrombocytopenia (platelet count <50 000/μl). In the relevant literature, few studies have addressed severe thrombocytopenia in pregnancy. This is a retrospective study based on the data from a reference center in Ankara, Turkey between January 2016 and December 2017. The study group consisted of 51 pregnant women who had two platelet counts lower than 50 000/μl. Descriptive statistical methods were utilized to analyze the results. The study analyzed the causes of severe thrombocytopenia, maternal and fetal-neonatal outcomes, and the management of the patients. The common causes of severe thrombocytopenia were hypertensive disorders (66.7%), immune thrombocytopenia (13.7%), massive obstetric hemorrhage (7.8%), and disseminated intravascular coagulation (5.9%). The preterm delivery occurred in 58.8% of the patients, and 46 live-births (two twins), six stillbirths, and one pregnancy termination emerged. Postpartum hemorrhage occurred in four (0.08%) patients, and blood transfusion was performed in 15 (29.4%) patients. The platelet transfusion was required to increase the platelet count of 30 (58.8%) patients. The study showed that the incidence of causes in severe thrombocytopenia in pregnancy varied considerably from mild and moderate thrombocytopenia. Despite severe thrombocytopenia, maternal and neonatal bleeding complications were infrequent in the study group.

The behavior of Mean Platelet Volume in Sepsis in critical patients with and without sepsis

The mean platelet volume is an anatomical biomarker that has shown its usefulness in various cardiovascular and metabolic pathologies; in sepsis, it has been positioning itself as an indicator of mortality, easily accessible and immediately applicable when reported in the routine blood count. This study demonstrates the mean platelet volume's biological behavior in critical patients with sepsis compared with non-septic patients. An observational, longitudinal, prospective, monocentric cohort study was conducted in 250 patients treated at the intensive care unit of the Pablo Arturo Suárez Hospital, Quito- Ecuador, from January 2019 January 2020. A group of patients with sepsis (n = 125) and without infectious pathologies (n = 125) were studied. The inclusion criteria were patients over 18 years of age of both genders, diagnosed with sepsis or septic shock using SEPSIS 3 criteria, and patients without septic pathology. The mean platelet volume (MPV) of days 1, 2, and 3 were studied. Septic patients had a mean APACHE (18.74 SD 9.52) higher than the non-septic ones (11.93 SD 7.01) (p = < 0.000). The MPV was consistently higher in patients with sepsis than non-septic patients, but it reached statistical significance on day 3 (9.13 SD 1.55 vs. 8.66 SD 1.34, p=0.042). The MPV on day 3 presented a significant area under the curve (AUC =0.580) (CI. 0.500-0.661), where the cut-off point according to Youden's index was positive for sepsis if MPV≥ 9.85 femtoliter (fL) with OR=3.30 and p-value= 0.005. Likewise, lactate on admission showed an AUC of 0.625 (CI. 0.555-0.694), with a cut-off point ≥of 1.15 mmol / L, OR=2.51, and p=0.007. Age and hypertension did not show a multivariate relationship with the presence of sepsis. It was shown that MPV is higher in patients with sepsis compared to non-septic ones. This observation reaches significance on day 3. Additionally, elevated lactate at admission was also associated with a septic state. On the other hand, platelet count did not show the expected behavior.

Platelet counts during normal pregnancies and pregnancies complicated with hypertensive disorders

OBJECTIVES

To determine the trajectories of platelet counts and the prevalence of gestational thrombocytopenia (<150 × 10⁹/L) during normal pregnancies and pregnancies with complications, such as hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), preeclampsia, and fetal growth restriction (FGR).

STUDY DESIGN

A multicenter retrospective study was conducted using laboratory data on women who delivered term singletons at 11 primary maternity care units between 2011 and 2018 (n = 35,045), and non-pregnant women who underwent a medical check-up between 2016 and 2019 (n = 61,189). After 1:1 matching, 28,073 pregnant women and 28,073 non-pregnant women were selected for analysis.

MAIN OUTCOMES MEASURES

The trajectories of platelet counts and prevalence of gestational thrombocytopenia were evaluated in normal pregnant women, pregnant women with complications, and non-pregnant women.

RESULTS

The platelet counts declined throughout pregnancy, with the nadir occurring on postpartum day 1. The platelet counts recovered to the level of the non-pregnant state at postpartum 2-7 days. The mean platelet counts at postpartum day 1 decreased by an estimated 19.8% and 9.7% compared to those in the non-pregnant state and first trimester, respectively. The prevalence of gestational thrombocytopenia in normal pregnant women at 37-41 gestational weeks and in pregnant women with complications of HDP, preeclampsia, and FGR were 6.1%, 7.3%, 17.5%, and 7.7%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Platelet counts declined throughout pregnancy and recovered to the level of the non-pregnant state in the early postpartum period. Gestational thrombocytopenia is common during normal pregnancy, and its prevalence is significantly higher in women with preeclampsia.

Mild thrombocytopenia prior to elective cesarean section is an independent risk factor for blood transfusion

PURPOSE

Thrombocytopenia is the second most common hematological disorder in pregnancy and complicates approximately 10% of all pregnancies. The data regarding the association of mild thrombocytopenia in women undergoing cesarean section and risk of bleeding or bleeding-related complications are scarce. Thus, the aim of the current study was to assess the association of mild thrombocytopenia with hemorrhage-related morbidities, among patients undergoing elective cesarean section.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study, in a single tertiary university-affiliated medical center, between 1 January 2012 and 31 May 2019. Medical charts of women who underwent elective cesarean section at term (37^+0/7-41 + ^6/7 weeks of gestations) were retrieved and analyzed. We compared women with mild thrombocytopenia (platelet count of 100-149 × 10³/μL) to women with normal platelet count (150-450 × 10³/μL). The primary outcome was the need for red blood cell transfusion during the index admission. A secondary outcome was severe bleeding not requiring blood transfusion defined as postpartum hemoglobin decline of  ≥ 3 g/dL as compared to the prepartum levels.

RESULTS

During the study period, 1577 women were included in the final analysis, of them 396 (25.11%) had mild thrombocytopenia prior to delivery. As compared to the control group, women with mild thrombocytopenia had higher rates of blood transfusion (3.79 vs. 1.52%, p = 0.01), and had a significant decline in hemoglobin levels. In a multivariable logistic regression model, mild thrombocytopenia was independently associated with blood transfusion with adjusted OR of 2.34 (95% CI 1.10-4.96, p = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

Preoperative mild thrombocytopenia is associated with an increased risk of blood loss and blood transfusion in women undergoing elective CS. More studies are required to assess those observations in context of urgent cesarean sections and whether any preventive measures can reduce the risk for bleeding.

HOW Collaborative position paper on the management of thrombocytopenia in pregnancy

Thrombocytopenia in pregnancy is a common occurrence, affecting up to 10% of women by the time of birth. These recommendations aim to provide pragmatic guidance on the investigation, diagnosis and management of thrombocytopenia in pregnancy; including safety of neuraxial anaesthesia and precautions required for birth. Management of neonatal thrombocytopenia is also addressed. The authors are clinicians representing haematology, obstetric medicine, maternal-fetal medicine, and anaesthesia. Each author conducted a detailed literature review then worked collaboratively to produce a series of unanimous recommendations. The recommendation strength is limited by the lack of high-quality clinical trial data, and represents level C evidence.

Severe thrombocytopenia in pregnancy: a case series from west China

Thrombocytopenia is the second most common hematological disease during pregnancy and is mainly caused by gestational thrombocytopenia, immune thrombocytopenia, or preeclampsia/HELLP syndrome. This study aims to investigate the causes and pregnancy outcomes of thrombocytopenia in pregnancies with platelet counts below 50 × 10⁹/L. We retrospectively analyzed the pregnancies diagnosed with severe thrombocytopenia at a tertiary care center in western China between January 2009 and December 2017. All enrolled pregnancies were divided into three groups according to the lowest platelet counts: group A (30-50 × 10⁹/L), group B (10-30 × 10⁹/L), and group C (< 10 × 10⁹/L). Maternal and fetal outcomes were observed and compared among these three platelet levels. A total of 533 consecutive pregnancies were included. A relatively large proportion (37.3%, 199/533) of them showed a history of thrombocytopenia before pregnancy or during a previous pregnancy. Most of the women (70.2%, 374/533) received corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin, or platelet transfusion treatments. The incidence of preterm birth < 37 weeks (26.3%, 15/57), cesarean section (93%, 53/57), and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission (31.6%, 18/57) occurred significantly more often in group C than in groups A and B. Neonatal platelet counts were detected in 28.2% of the infants (155/549), and neonatal thrombocytopenia was found in 40.6% of the infants (63/155). Intracranial hemorrhage occurred in 0.9% of the neonates (5/549) throughout the study period, with neonatal nadir platelet counts between 20 × 10⁹/L and 245 × 10⁹/L. One perinatal death occurred in group C. Pregnancies with the lowest platelet counts below 10 × 10⁹/L are more often complicated by preterm birth, cesarean section, and NICU admission compared with those lowest platelet counts 30-50 × 10⁹/L and 10-30 × 10⁹/L. Neonatal intracranial hemorrhage was uncommon in pregnancies with severe thrombocytopenia. Active management should be performed to avoid possible preterm birth and neonatal NICU admission in pregnancies with the lowest platelet counts below 10 × 10⁹/L.

Preoperative moderate thrombocytopenia is not associated with increased blood loss for low-risk cesarean section: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

The occurrence of thrombocytopenia is as high as 7-12% in pregnancy, yet minimum platelet count safe for cesarean section remains unknown.

METHODS

In this retrospective noninferior cohort study, we consecutively included patients undergoing cesarean section for a period of 6 years in a tertiary hospital and excluded patients at very high risk for excessive hemorrhage. The included patients with preoperative platelet count of 50-100 × 10⁹/L were defined as the thrombocytopenic group. The control group were eligible patients with preoperative platelet count>150 × 10⁹/L, matched to the thrombocytopenic group by age and operation timing in a 1:2 ratio. Mixed effect model was used to analyze the effect of thrombocytopenia based on a noninferiority assumption. The predefined noninferiority delta of bleeding was 50 mL.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference of the calculated blood loss between the thrombocytopenic and the control group (mean difference = 8.94, 95% CI - 28.34 mL to 46.09 mL). No statistical difference was observed in the requirement for blood transfusion, visually estimated blood loss, or the incidence of adverse events between groups. Although there were more patients admitted to intensive care unit (odds ratio = 12, 95% CI 2.69-53.62, p = 0.001) in the thrombocytopenic group, most of them required critical care for reasons other than hemorrhage. The thrombocytopenic group had longer length of hospital stay (mean difference = 0.40 days, 95% CI 0.09-0.71, p = 0.011), but the difference was considered as clinically insignificant.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative moderate thrombocytopenia is not associated with increased blood loss, blood transfusion, or occurrence of adverse events in patients undergoing cesarean section in absence of additional bleeding risk.

Clinical characteristics, neonatal risk and recurrence rate of gestational thrombocytopenia with platelet count <100 × 109/L

OBJECTIVE

Gestational thrombocytopenia (GT) accounts for 75% of cases of thrombocytopenia in pregnancy. In most cases of GT, thrombocytopenia is mild (100-150 × 10⁹/L) and has no consequences for either the mother or the fetus. We aimed to investigate the characteristics, neonatal risk and recurrence rate of GT with a platelet count <100 × 10⁹/L.

STUDY DESIGN

We reviewed the records of women who delivered during 2006-2016 at a large tertiary care university hospital, and who had platelet count <100 × 10⁹/L during pregnancy.

RESULTS

Of 97 pregnancies in which platelet count lower than 100 × 10⁹/L was encountered, 66 (68%) were diagnosed as GT and 31 (32%) as new-onset immune-thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). The proportions of women with onset of thrombocytopenia in early pregnancy (P = 0.004) and a lower maternal nadir platelet count (P = 0.01) were higher among those with new-onset ITP than GT. There was no difference in the rate of neonatal thrombocytopenia (<100 × 10⁹/L) between those with newly diagnosed ITP and GT (16.1% vs. 10.6%, P = 0.51). Among women with GT, the rate of neonatal thrombocytopenia was higher in those who experienced antepartum bleeding (P = 0.009) and in whom the onset of thrombocytopenia was in early pregnancy (P = 0.002). Of 40 subsequent pregnancies, a recurrence of GT (<100 × 10⁹/L) was encountered in 22 (55%), with similar maternal and perinatal outcomes compared to the initial pregnancy.

CONCLUSION

The risk of neonatal thrombocytopenia was substantial, with no difference found between those with GT and new-onset ITP. The recurrence rate of GT was high in subsequent pregnancies.

Thrombocytopenia in Pregnancy: Mechanisms and Management

Thrombocytopenia is a common hematologic issue encountered by obstetricians and hematologists, detected in about 10% of all pregnancies. In the vast majority of cases, the thrombocytopenia will be attributed to gestational thrombocytopenia (GT), where the thrombocytopenia is mild, does not necessitate active management, and does not introduce maternal or fetal bleeding risk. Although GT is common, the specific mechanism responsible for it is not known with certainty, and therefore, differentiating it from other causes of thrombocytopenia can be challenging. Previously proposed explanations for GT suggest that a decrease in platelet count is universal in pregnancy, and women diagnosed with GT are simply those with a baseline platelet count on the lower end of normal range. This concept is challenged in this review, and a possible mechanism for GT is proposed. Additionally, a framework for approaching the diagnosis and management of thrombocytopenia in pregnancy is presented.

Anemia in Pregnancy: A Pragmatic Approach

Importance

Anemia is common in pregnancy, ranging from 5.4% in developed countries to more than 80% in developing countries. Anemia in pregnancy has been associated with prematurity, low birth weight, and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Objective

This review uses clinical vignettes to illustrate the clinical presentations, approach to diagnosis, maternal and fetal implications, and treatment for the common etiologies of anemia in pregnancy.

Evidence Acquisition

Literature review.

Results

Normal physiological changes in pregnancy result in alterations of hematological parameters particularly in a reduction of hemoglobin (Hb) concentration. Consequently, the Hb used to define anemia in pregnancy is lower than in nonpregnant patients. As there is an increased requirement of iron in pregnancy, it is not unexpected that iron deficiency remains the most common cause of anemia and warrants a preemptive approach to prevent a further reduction in Hb. The syndromes associated with microangiopathic hemolytic anemia may pose a diagnostic challenge, as there are several potential etiologies that may be difficult to differentiate, and microangiopathic hemolytic anemia can be associated with significant maternal and fetal morbidity andmortality. Anemia secondary to sickle cell disease and autoimmune hemolytic anemiamerit special attention because there are risks secondary to red blood cell transfusion and risks to withholding transfusion.

Conclusions

Anemia in pregnancy is potentially associated with maternal and fetal adverse outcomes. Providing evidence-based care is essential to achieving the best pregnancy outcomes.

My patient is thrombocytopenic! Is (s)he? Why? And what shall I do?

Solving the riddle of a thrombocytopenic patient is a difficult and fascinating task. The spectrum of possible aetiologies is wide, ranging from an in vitro artefact to severe treatment-resistant thrombocytopenic bleeding conditions, or even life-threatening prothrombotic states. Moreover, thrombocytopenia by itself does not protect from thrombosis and sometimes a patient with a low platelet count requires concomitant antithrombotic treatment as well. In order to identify and treat the cause and the effects of the thrombocytopenia, you have to put together several pieces of information, solving a unique jig-jaw puzzle.

The present work is not a textbook article about thrombocytopenia, rather a collection of differential diagnostic thoughts, treatment concepts, and some basic knowledge, that you can retrieve when facing your next thrombocytopenic patient. Enjoy reading it, but most importantly enjoy taking care of patients with a low platelet count. I bet the present work will assist you in this challenging and rewarding clinical task.

Report on the management of thrombocytopenia in obstetric patients: A retrospective study

Thrombocytopenia occurs to approximately 8%–10% of pregnant women and this condition is a notable source of morbidity and mortality during pregnancy. In the recent years, our comprehension of thrombocytopenia has progressed on pregnancy. Nevertheless, there has not been adequate information about thrombocytopenia outcomes in obstetric patients. With regard to this topic, we reviewed published reports as an update from the managements on these cases. Nevertheless, recommendations for management of delivery in obstetric women with thrombocytopenia are based on several hypotheses requiring critical analysis. For this cause, we reviewed the management of pregnant patients with thrombocytopenia treated over a period of 37 years.

Predictors of Fetal and Maternal Outcome in the Crucible of Hepatic Dysfunction During Pregnancy

BACKGROUND

Hepatic dysfunction during pregnancy places both the mother and the fetus at risk. Investigations which are efficient, cost effective and easily available for prognostication are required to tackle this global problem. We studied the etiologies and evaluated investigations for predictive efficiency.

METHODS

One hundred ninety-seven pregnant women with hepatic dysfunction during pregnancy were identified. All patients were followed up till 8 weeks after termination of pregnancy or death. Clinico-demographic, biochemical and hematological data were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

One hundred ninety-seven of 6,122 females had abnormal liver function tests. Pre-eclampsia (57%), eclampsia (19%), HELLP syndrome (8%), viral infection (6%), hyperemesis gravidarum (5%), intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (4%), chronic liver disease (1%) and sepsis were encountered. There were 41 fetal deaths, 42% preterm deliveries, and NICU admission rate was 27%. Five maternal deaths occurred. Maternal anemia, thrombocytopenia, hyperbilirubinemia and coagulopathy were statistically significant in adverse fetal outcomes. Serum bilirubin performed better than INR as a predictor of both maternal and fetal outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Hepatic dysfunction during pregnancy is associated with adverse events for both the mother and the fetus and hypertensive disorders remain the major cause. Maternal bilirubin levels and INR have a role in predicting adverse feto-maternal outcome.

Establishment of reference intervals for complete blood count parameters during normal pregnancy in Beijing

OBJECTIVE

To observe the changes of complete blood count (CBC) parameters during pregnancy and establish appropriate reference intervals for healthy pregnant women.

METHODS

Healthy pregnant women took the blood tests at all trimesters. All blood samples were processed on Sysmex XE-2100. The following CBC parameters were analyzed: red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Hct), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), red blood cell distribution width (RDW), platelet count (PLT), mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW), white blood cell count (WBC), and leukocyte differential count. Reference intervals were established using the 2.5th and 97.5th percentile of the distribution.

RESULTS

Complete blood count parameters showed dynamic changes during trimesters. RBC, Hb, Hct declined at trimester 1, reaching their lowest point at trimester 2, and began to rise again at trimester 3. WBC, neutrophil count (Neut), monocyte count (MONO), RDW, and PDW went up from trimester 1 to trimester 3. On the contrary, MCHC, lymphocyte count (LYMPH), PLT, and MPV gradually descended during pregnancy. There were statistical significances in all CBC parameters between pregnant women and normal women, regardless of the trimesters (P<.001). The median obtained were (normal vs pregnancy) as follows: RBC 4.50 vs 3.94×10¹² /L, Hb 137 vs 120 g/L, WBC 5.71 vs 9.06×10⁹ /L, LYMPH% 32.2 vs 18.0, Neut% 58.7 vs 75.0, and PLT 251 vs 202×10⁹ /L.

CONCLUSION

The changes of CBC parameters during pregnancy are described, and reference intervals for Beijing pregnant women are demonstrated in this study.

Thrombopoietin: a potential diagnostic indicator of immune thrombocytopenia in pregnancy

To evaluate whether the serum thrombopoietin levels in pregnancy-associated immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) differ from those in gestational thrombocytopenia, and reveal the possibility of thrombopoietin serving as a marker for differential diagnosis. Serum thrombopoietin concentration was determined in ITP in pregnancy (n = 35), gestational thrombocytopenia (n = 31), healthy pregnancy (n = 32), age-matched nonpregnant ITP (n = 32) and nonpregnant healthy controls (n = 35) by ELISA. The serum thrombopoietin level of ITP in pregnancy (1283 ± 646 pg/mL) was significantly higher than gestational thrombocytopenia (187 ± 64 pg/mL) (P < 0.01), although the platelet counts of these two disorders may overlap. Twenty-nine of 35 patients with ITP in pregnancy had thrombopoietin values >500 pg/mL, whereas none of the gestational thrombocytopenia patients' thrombopoietin levels exceeded 500 pg/mL. In addition, ITP in pregnancy presented a markedly higher thrombopoietin level than nonpregnant ITP (88 ± 41 pg/mL) (P < 0.01), indicating that the pathogenesis of pregnant and nonpregnant ITP was different. Our findings suggest that measurement of serum thrombopoietin concentration provides valuable diagnostic information for differentiating ITP in pregnancy from gestational thrombocytopenia. Thrombopoietin represents a reliable marker for ITP in pregnancy.

Neonatal Outcomes of Pregnancy with Immune Thrombocytopenia

Neonates born to mothers with immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) have an increased risk for neonatal thrombocytopenia and hemorrhagic complications. The aim of this study was to determine the maternal and neonatal outcomes of pregnancies with ITP and also to identify risk factors that predicts neonatal thrombocytopenia. We performed a retrospective analysis of 40 pregnancies with ITP and their 40 neonates. Among the 40 neonates, thrombocytopenia (platelet count of less than 150 × 10⁹/L) was detected in 15 neonates (37.5 %) whom 8 of them had severe thrombocytopenia (platelet count of less than 50 × 10⁹/L). Ten of the 15 neonates with thrombocytopenia required treatment to increase the platelet counts. There was statistically significant association between neonatal thrombocytopenia and maternal splenectomy history and maternal duration of thrombocytopenia. There was no statistically significant correlation between maternal platelet count and neonatal platelet count. Clinicians should pay special attention in these neonates because of risk for development of neonatal thrombocytopenia. Maternal and neonatal outcomes in patients with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura is generally good.

The Differential Diagnosis of Thrombocytopenia in Pregnancy

BACKGROUND

Thrombocytopenia is, after anemia, the second most common abnormality of the complete blood count in pregnancy, with a reported frequency of 6.6% to 11.2%. It has many causes. Thrombocytopenia should be diagnostically evaluated as early as possible in pregnancy, so that the obstetrical management can be accordingly planned to minimize harm to the mother and child. As the various underlying diseases share clinical features and laboratory findings, the differential diagnosis is often a difficult interdisciplinary challenge.

METHODS

In this article, we review pertinent literature (2000-January 2015) retrieved by a selective search in PubMed.

RESULTS

Gestational thrombocytopenia is the most common type, accounting for 75% of cases, followed by severe pre-eclampsia/HELLP syndrome (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelet count) in 15-22% and autoimmune thrombocytopenia (ITP) in 1-4%. Gestational thrombocytopenia and ITP differ in the bleeding history, the severity of thrombocytopenia, the frequency of neo - natal thrombocytopenia, and the rate of normalization of the platelet count after delivery. The HELLP syndrome and rarer microangiopathic hemolytic anemias (e.g., thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura) can be differentiated on the basis of their main clinical features, such as hypertension/proteinuria and upper abdominal pain, the severity of hemolysis and thrombocytopenia, the degree of transaminase elevation, and the rapidity of postpartum remission of the clinical and laboratory findings. A stepwise diagnostic procedure should be followed to distinguish further causes, e.g., to differentiate thrombocytopenia due to infection, autoimmune disease, or drugs from thrombocytopenia due to a rare hereditary disease.

CONCLUSION

The early interdisciplinary evaluation of thrombocytopenia in pregnancy is a prerequisite for the optimal care of the mother and child. The development of evidence-based recommendations for interdisciplinary management should be a goal for the near future.

Thrombocytopenic syndromes in pregnancy

The physiological changes in pregnancy result in platelet counts that are lower than in nonpregnant women. Consequently, thrombocytopenia is a common finding occurring in 7-12% of pregnant women. Gestational thrombocytopenia, the most common cause of low platelet counts, tends to be mild in most women and does not affect maternal, fetal or neonatal outcomes. Gestational thrombocytopenia needs to be distinguished from other less common causes of isolated thrombocytopenia, such as immune thrombocytopenia, which affects approximately 3% of thrombocytopenic pregnant women and can lead to neonatal thrombocytopenia. Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and thrombotic microangiopathies are both associated with thrombocytopenia. They share a considerable number of similar characteristics and are associated with significant maternal and neonatal morbidity and rarely mortality. Accurate identification of the aetiology of thrombocytopenia and appropriate management are integral to optimizing the pregnancy, delivery and neonatal outcomes of this population. Clinical cases are described to illustrate the various aetiologies of thrombocytopenia in pregnancy and their treatment.

Successful prevention of exacerbation of thrombocytopenia in a pregnant patient with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura by anticoagulation treatment

BACKGROUND

Corticosteroid or intravenous immunoglobulin is used in the management of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura during pregnancy.

CASE PRESENTATION

A patient with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura had a previous history of interrupted pregnancy due to severe thrombocytopenia, and was unresponsive to high doses of corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulin. Immediately following pregnancy, our patient had a marked elevation in plasma levels of fibrinogen degradation products, D-dimer, and platelet factor 4, with a decrease in platelets, suggesting platelet activation and thrombogenesis. Combined treatment with an anticoagulant agent could prevent exacerbation of thrombocytopenia throughout pregnancy. Although the underlying causes leading to the series in her pregnancy course were uncertain, there were notable serological abnormalities, such as weakly positive antinuclear antibody and anti-U1-RNP antibody.

CONCLUSION

When thrombocytopenia rapidly develops in patients with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura immediately following pregnancy, the possibility of a thrombogenic state and differential diagnosis, including antiphospholipid syndrome and collagen vascular disease, should be considered. Treatment with an anticoagulant agent might then be appropriate.

Pre-eclampsia, eclampsia and adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes: a secondary analysis of the World Health Organization Multicountry Survey on Maternal and Newborn Health

OBJECTIVE

To assess the incidence of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and related severe complications, identify other associated factors and compare maternal and perinatal outcomes in women with and without these conditions.

DESIGN

Secondary analysis of the World Health Organization Multicountry Survey on Maternal and Newborn Health (WHOMCS) database.

SETTING

Cross-sectional study implemented at 357 health facilities conducting 1000 or more deliveries annually in 29 countries from Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Middle East.

POPULATION

All women suffering from any hypertensive disorder during pregnancy, the intrapartum or early postpartum period in the participating hospitals during the study period.

METHODS

We calculated the proportion of the pre-specified outcomes in the study population and their distribution according to hypertensive disorders' severity. We estimated the association between them and maternal deaths, near-miss cases, and severe maternal complications using a multilevel logit model.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Potentially life-threatening conditions among maternal near-miss cases, maternal deaths and cases without severe maternal outcomes.

RESULTS

Overall, 8542 (2.73%) women suffered from hypertensive disorders. Incidences of pre-eclampsia, eclampsia and chronic hypertension were 2.16%, 0.28% and 0.29%, respectively. Maternal near-miss cases were eight times more frequent in women with pre-eclampsia, and increased to up to 60 times more frequent in women with eclampsia, when compared with women without these conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

The analysis of this large database provides estimates of the global distribution of the incidence of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. The information on the most frequent complications related to pre-eclampsia and eclampsia could be of interest to inform policies for health systems organisation.

Intravenous ferric carboxymaltose for anaemia in pregnancy

BACKGROUND

Iron deficiency is a common nutritional deficiency amongst women of childbearing age. Peri-partum iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is associated with significant maternal, fetal and infant morbidity. Current options for treatment are limited: these include oral iron supplementation, which can be ineffective and poorly tolerated, and red blood cell transfusions, which carry an inherent risk and should be avoided. Ferric carboxymaltose is a new treatment option that may be better tolerated.The study was designed to assess the safety and efficacy of iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) correction with intravenous ferric carboxymaltose in pregnant women with mild, moderate and severe anaemia in the second and third trimester.

METHODS

Prospective observational study; 65 anaemic pregnant women received ferric carboxymaltose up to 15 mg/kg between 24 and 40 weeks of pregnancy (median 35 weeks gestational age, SD 3.6). Treatment effectiveness was assessed by repeat haemoglobin (Hb) measurements and patient report of well-being in the postpartum period. Safety was assessed by analysis of adverse drug reactions and fetal heart rate monitoring during the infusion.

RESULTS

Intravenous ferric carboxymaltose infusion significantly increased Hb values (p < 0.01) above baseline levels in all women. Increased Hb values were observed at 3 and 6 weeks post infusion and up to 8 weeks post-infusion. Ferritin values increased significantly after the infusion. Only 4 women had repeat ferritin values post-partum which remained above baseline levels. Fetal heart rate monitoring did not indicate a drug related negative impact on the fetus. Of the 29 (44.6%) women interviewed, 19 (65.5%) women reported an improvement in their well-being and 9 (31%) felt no different after the infusion. None of the women felt worse. No serious adverse effects were found and minor side effects occurred in 13 (20%) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Our prospective data is consistent with existing observational reports of the safe and effective use of ferric carboxymaltose in the treatment of iron deficiency anaemia in pregnancy.

Successful treatment of severe thrombocytopenia with romiplostim in a pregnant patient with systemic lupus erythematosus

We present a case of a pregnant woman at 27 weeks of gestation with systemic lupus erythematosus who developed severe thrombocytopenia presenting with melena, epistaxis, gum bleeding and frank hematuria. She was resistant to most treatment modalities, including steroids, intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG), rituximab, IV cyclophosphamide and eltrombopag. She responded to romiplostim with normalization of her platelet count, which enabled her to be delivered safely at 34 weeks of gestation.

An unusual presentation of gestational thrombocytopenia

Thrombocytopenia is classically defined as a platelet count of less than 150 000/µl. Counts from 100 000 to 150 000/µl are considered mildly depressed, 50 000 to 100 000/µl moderately depressed, and less than 50 000/µl severely depressed. Thrombocytopenia occurs in about 10% of pregnant women. Gestational thrombocytopenia (GT) is a diagnosis of exclusion and considered the most prevalent cause of thrombocytopenia in pregnancy. GT accounts for almost 75% of cases of thrombocytopenia in pregnancy. The cause of GT is unclear, although existing studies denote the possibility of accelerated platelet consumption and the increased plasma volume during pregnancy. The presence of antiplatelet antibodies is not specific to GT. The degree of thrombocytopenia in GT is usually mild to moderate, usually remaining greater than 70 000/µl. Patients are asymptomatic with no evidence of bleeding and rarely preconception history of thrombocytopenia. The platelet count returns to normal within 2-12 weeks post partum. We wish to report a unique case of GT presenting as blurred vision due to retinal hemorrhages.