Platelets, frozen plasma, and cryoprecipitate: what is the clinical evidence for their use in the neonatal intensive care unit?

Semin Perinatol. 2009 Feb;33(1):66-74. doi: 10.1053/j.semperi.2008.10.004.

Abstract

Transfusion of blood components such as platelets, frozen plasma, and cryoprecipitate is a common practice in the neonatal intensive care unit. Although it is intuitive that these components would be transfused in the context of bleeding, their use in neonatology has often been on a prophylactic basis. Due to a lack of consensus guidelines regarding indications for transfusion, however, the neonatologist is left to his/her opinion as to when to transfuse. This article seeks to review the available evidence regarding the use of platelets, frozen plasma, and cryoprecipitate in neonates, as well as the risks associated with the administration of these products.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Blood Component Transfusion / methods*
  • Factor VIII / administration & dosage
  • Fibrinogen / administration & dosage
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn / blood*
  • Intensive Care, Neonatal / methods*
  • Plasma
  • Platelet Transfusion / methods
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic

Substances

  • cryoprecipitate coagulum
  • Factor VIII
  • Fibrinogen