Issue 3/2023
Georgieva, R.
Specialized Hospital for Active Treatment of Children’s Diseases, Clinic of Neonatology – Sofia
Anemia is a common condition in premature infants, both in the neonatal period and in the first year of life. The indications for hemotransfusion in premature infants are still a matter of debate. The therapeutic benefits and potential complications of blood transfusion in this at-risk group of neonates are reviewed. One of the strategies to reduce the number of hemotransfusions is a restrictive approach with strict monitoring and judgment by neonatologists. Iron deficiency is very common in premature patients and is essential for brain and neurocognitive development and function. Modern recommendations are for earlier inclusion of iron supplementation / from the second – third week / in a dose of 2-3 mg/kg body weight. up to 6-12 months of age depending on gestational age, birth weight and hematological indicators. In premature children, regular monitoring of hemoglobin and ferritin is necessary in the first year.
Address for correspondence:
Georgieva, R.
Specialized Hospital for Active Treatment of Children’s Diseases, Clinic of Neonatology
1, “Akad Ivan Geshov”, Blvd.
1606, Sofia
e-mail: raligeorgi@yahoo.com
Phone: +359 888 952 925