Evidence-based platelet transfusion recommendations in neonates

Optimizing operational efficiencies in early phase trials: The Pediatric Trials Network experience

Performing drug trials in pediatrics is challenging. In support of the Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Act, the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development funded the formation of the Pediatric Trials Network (PTN) in 2010. Since its inception, the PTN has developed strategies to increase both efficiency and safety of pediatric drug trials. Through use of innovative techniques such as sparse and scavenged blood sampling as well as opportunistic study design, participation in trials has grown. The PTN has also strived to improve consistency of adverse event reporting in neonatal drug trials through the development of a standardized adverse event table. We review how the PTN is optimizing operational efficiencies in pediatric drug trials to increase the safety of drugs in children.

Preventing germinal matrix layer rupture and intraventricular hemorrhage

The etiology of intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) in extremely low birth weight preterm infants is multifactorial with circulatory instability and hemostasis being preeminent. This study sought to determine if the germinal matrix layer remained intact when platelets were above 200 × 10(9)/L, a near normal level, and fell below that when IVH occurred. This was a retrospective study of platelets and head ultrasounds (HUS) in infants 23-28 weeks gestation. Analyses were descriptive, one way analysis of variance, Pearson Chi-square tests, and t-tests. Platelet counts and HUS were linked in 114 infants during the first 3 days when 90% of IVHs occur. Mean platelet levels were >200 × 10(9)/L in 68% of infant 23-24 weeks gestation and 78% of those 25-26 weeks when there were no IVHs. These findings, if confirmed, suggest that improving hemostasis in high risk preterm infants by keeping platelet levels >200 × 10(9)/L may maintain the integrity of the germinal matrix layer and prevent IVHs.

A consistent approach to platelet transfusion in the NICU

Platelet transfusions are the principal means of treating thrombocytopenia in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), and are generally used as treatment of thrombocytopenic neonates who have active bleeding and as prophylactic administration in thrombocytopenic neonates who do not have hemorrhage but appear to be at high risk for bleeding. In this article, we summarize the rationale, benefits and risks of platelet transfusions in neonates. We review the importance of choosing the best product available for platelet transfusion, and we emphasize the importance of adopting and adhering to transfusion guidelines.