1
|
Juul S, German K. Iron supplementation for infants in the NICU: What preparation, how much, and how long is optimal? Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2025; 30:101612. [PMID: 40016057 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2025.101612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/01/2025]
Abstract
Infants born preterm or with other perinatal risk factors are at added risk for both iron deficiency and overload. Insufficient iron supplementation in the perinatal period is associated with long-term neurodevelopmental effects. Based on this, iron supplements must be targeted to infants' individual iron needs to avoid the adverse effects of both iron deficiency and overload. Enteral iron supplements have been the gold standard in iron supplementation of neonates for many years. However, emerging parenteral formulations may provide an alternative for some infants, such as those who are unable to tolerate oral supplements or who are refractory to enteral supplementation. Optimal dosing and timing of supplementation is an area of ongoing research. In this review, we will summarize available enteral and parenteral iron formulations, review iron measurement parameters, and identify outstanding questions and ongoing research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Juul
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, USA; Institute on Human Development and Disability, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific St., Box 356320, RR542 HSB, Seattle, WA, 98195-6320, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Manglani M, Sharma R. Maternal-Fetal Iron Kinetics. Indian Pediatr 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s13312-023-2829-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
|
3
|
Prevalence of and Risk Factors for Iron Deficiency in Twin and Singleton Newborns. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14183854. [PMID: 36145230 PMCID: PMC9500937 DOI: 10.3390/nu14183854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Iron deficiency (ID) in utero and in infancy can cause irreversible neurocognitive damage. Iron status is not routinely tested at birth, so the burden of neonatal ID in the United States is unknown. Infants born from twin or higher-order pregnancies may be at elevated risk of inadequate nutrient endowment at birth. The present study sought to compare the burden of neonatal ID in cord blood serum samples from twin (n = 54) and singleton pregnancies (n = 24). Iron status (serum ferritin (SF), soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR), hepcidin) and inflammation (C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6)) biomarker concentrations were measured by immunoassay. The prevalence of ID (SF < 76 ng/mL) among twins was 21% (23/108) and among singletons 20% (5/24). Gestational age at birth, maternal race and infant sex predicted SF levels. Maternal anemia (hemoglobin < 11 g/dL) was observed in 40% of mothers but was not associated with neonatal iron biomarkers. More research is needed to identify risk factors and regulatory mechanisms for inadequate fetal iron accrual to identify higher risk pregnancies and neonates for screening and intervention.
Collapse
|
4
|
Brichta CE, Godwin J, Norlin S, Kling PJ. Impact and interactions between risk factors on the iron status of at-risk neonates. J Perinatol 2022; 42:1103-1109. [PMID: 35132153 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-022-01318-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Examine interactions between perinatal risk factors for congenital iron deficiency (ID) using two cohorts. STUDY DESIGN Iron status in a composite 767-member cord blood cohort and a NICU cohort of 257 infants < 33 weeks of gestation or small for gestational age (SGA). Risks for ID were examined. Cord ferritin levels < 84 µg/L defined congenital ID. Serum ferritin < 70 µg/L defined infantile ID at one-month. RESULTS 31% of the cord cohort had congenital ID; risks summative (p < 0.0015). 16% of the NICU cohort had infantile ID; risks not summative. However, 32% had ID if the ferritin threshold was 100 µg/L. Being both preterm (p < 0.0001) and SGA (p < 0.05) negatively impacted cord iron status. Maternal hypertension was a novel predictor of iron status (p = 0.023 in preterm cord; p < 0.0025 in NICU). CONCLUSION Summing risks in term and understanding compounding risks in preterm infants can improve screening and management of ID in at-risk infants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine E Brichta
- Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA.,UnityPoint Health Meriter, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jennie Godwin
- Pediatrics, Children's Mercy and University of Kansas and formerly, Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - Pamela J Kling
- Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA. .,UnityPoint Health Meriter, Madison, WI, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Christensen RD, Bahr TM, Ward DM. Iron deficiency in newborn infants: global rewards for recognizing and treating this silent malady. NEWBORN (CLARKSVILLE, MD.) 2022; 1:97-103. [PMID: 35949271 PMCID: PMC9361392 DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-11002-0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Robert D Christensen
- Divisions of Neonatology and Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, and Division of Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Pathology, and the Center for Iron and Heme Disorders, University of Utah Health, and Women and Newborn's Research, Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Timothy M Bahr
- Divisions of Neonatology and Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, and Division of Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Pathology, and the Center for Iron and Heme Disorders, University of Utah Health, and Women and Newborn's Research, Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Diane M Ward
- Divisions of Neonatology and Hematology, Department of Pediatrics, and Division of Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Pathology, and the Center for Iron and Heme Disorders, University of Utah Health, and Women and Newborn's Research, Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bahr TM, Christensen TR, Henry E, Wilkes J, Ohls RK, Bennett ST, Ward DM, Pysher TJ, Christensen RD. Neonatal Reference Intervals for the Complete Blood Count Parameters MicroR and HYPO-He: Sensitivity Beyond the Red Cell Indices for Identifying Microcytic and Hypochromic Disorders. J Pediatr 2021; 239:95-100.e2. [PMID: 34389321 PMCID: PMC9123644 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2021.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To create neonatal reference intervals for the MicroR and HYPO-He complete blood count (CBC) parameters and to test whether these parameters are sensitive early markers of disease at early stages of microcytic/hypochromic disorders while the CBC indices are still normal. STUDY DESIGN We retrospectively collected the CBC parameters MicroR and HYPO-He, along with the standard CBC parameters, from infants aged 0-90 days at Intermountain Healthcare hospitals using Sysmex hematology analyzers. We created reference intervals for these parameters by excluding values from neonates with proven microcytic disorders (ie, iron deficiency or alpha thalassemia) from the dataset. RESULT From >11 000 CBCs analyzed, we created reference intervals for MicroR and HYPO-He in neonates aged 0-90 days. The upper intervals are considerably higher in neonates than in adults, validating increased anisocytosis and polychromasia among neonates. Overall, 52% of neonates with iron deficiency (defined by reticulocyte hemoglobin equivalent <25 pg) had a MicroR >90% upper interval (relative risk, 4.14; 95% CI, 3.80-4.53; P < .001), and 68% had an HYPO-He >90% upper interval (relative risk, 6.64; 95% CI, 6.03-7.32; P < .001). These 2 new parameters were more sensitive than the red blood cell (RBC) indices (P < .001) in identifying 24 neonates with iron deficiency at birth. CONCLUSIONS We created neonatal reference intervals for MicroR and HYPO-He. Although Sysmex currently designates these as research use only in the US, they can be measured as part of a neonate's CBC with no additional phlebotomy volume or run time and can identify microcytic and hypochromic disorders even when the RBC indices are normal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy M Bahr
- Division of Neonatology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT; Center for Iron and Heme Disorders, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT.
| | | | - Erick Henry
- Women and Newborns Clinical Program, Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Jacob Wilkes
- Women and Newborns Clinical Program, Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Robin K Ohls
- Division of Neonatology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT
| | | | - Diane M Ward
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Theodore J Pysher
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT; Pediatric Pathology, Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Robert D Christensen
- Division of Neonatology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT; Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT; Center for Iron and Heme Disorders, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT; Women and Newborns Clinical Program, Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, UT
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
German KR, Juul SE. Iron and Neurodevelopment in Preterm Infants: A Narrative Review. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13113737. [PMID: 34835993 PMCID: PMC8624708 DOI: 10.3390/nu13113737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Iron is critical for brain development, playing key roles in synaptogenesis, myelination, energy metabolism and neurotransmitter production. NICU infants are at particular risk for iron deficiency due to high iron needs, preterm birth, disruptions in maternal or placental health and phlebotomy. If deficiency occurs during critical periods of brain development, this may lead to permanent alterations in brain structure and function which is not reversible despite later supplementation. Children with perinatal iron deficiency have been shown to have delayed nerve conduction speeds, disrupted sleep patterns, impaired recognition memory, motor deficits and lower global developmental scores which may be present as early as in the neonatal period and persist into adulthood. Based on this, ensuring brain iron sufficiency during the neonatal period is critical to optimizing neurodevelopmental outcomes and iron supplementation should be targeted to iron measures that correlate with improved outcomes.
Collapse
|
8
|
Gerday E, Brereton JB, Bahr TM, Elmont JO, Fullmer S, Middleton BA, Ward DM, Ohls RK, Christensen RD. Urinary ferritin; a potential noninvasive way to screen NICU patients for iron deficiency. J Perinatol 2021; 41:1419-1425. [PMID: 32709979 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-020-0746-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Building on our previous study, showing a correlation between ferritin in serum and urine, we conducted a feasibility evaluation, measuring urinary ferritin as a potential noninvasive screening test for iron deficiency among NICU patients. STUDY DESIGN This was a prospective analysis of paired serum/urine ferritin levels. We defined iron-limited erythropoiesis by a RET-He <5th percentile lower reference interval (<28 pg). RESULTS We obtained 49 paired serum/urine samples from neonates judged as at-risk for iron deficiency. Urine ferritin ("corrected" for urine creatinine and specific gravity) correlated with serum ferritin (correlation coefficient of log10-transformed values 0.44). A corrected urine ferritin <12 ng/mL had a sensitivity of 82% (95% CI, 67-93%) and a specificity of 100% (CI, 66-100%) for detecting iron-limited erythropoiesis, with a positive predictive value of 100% (CI, 89-100%). CONCLUSIONS Measuring urinary ferritin in NICU patients is feasible. Since low values identify iron-limitation, this could become a useful noninvasive screen.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erick Gerday
- Intermountain Healthcare, Women and Newborns Clinical Program, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Jennifer B Brereton
- Intermountain Healthcare, Women and Newborns Clinical Program, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Timothy M Bahr
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Jennifer O Elmont
- Intermountain Healthcare, Women and Newborns Clinical Program, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Susan Fullmer
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Science, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | | | - Diane M Ward
- Center for Iron and Heme Disorders, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Pathology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Robin K Ohls
- Intermountain Healthcare, Women and Newborns Clinical Program, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Robert D Christensen
- Intermountain Healthcare, Women and Newborns Clinical Program, Salt Lake City, UT, USA. .,Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA. .,Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wawer AA, Hodyl NA, Fairweather-Tait S, Froessler B. Are Pregnant Women Who Are Living with Overweight or Obesity at Greater Risk of Developing Iron Deficiency/Anaemia? Nutrients 2021; 13:1572. [PMID: 34067098 PMCID: PMC8151407 DOI: 10.3390/nu13051572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Low-grade inflammation is often present in people living with obesity. Inflammation can impact iron uptake and metabolism through elevation of hepcidin levels. Obesity is a major public health issue globally, with pregnant women often affected by the condition. Maternal obesity is associated with increased pregnancy risks including iron deficiency (ID) and iron-deficiency anaemia (IDA)-conditions already highly prevalent in pregnant women and their newborns. This comprehensive review assesses whether the inflammatory state induced by obesity could contribute to an increased incidence of ID/IDA in pregnant women and their children. We discuss the challenges in accurate measurement of iron status in the presence of inflammation, and available iron repletion strategies and their effectiveness in pregnant women living with obesity. We suggest that pre-pregnancy obesity and overweight/obese pregnancies carry a greater risk of ID/IDA for the mother during pregnancy and postpartum period, as well as for the baby. We propose iron status and weight gain during pregnancy should be monitored more closely in women who are living with overweight or obesity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna A. Wawer
- Department of Anaesthesia, Lyell McEwin Hospital, Elizabeth Vale, SA 5112, Australia;
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia;
| | - Nicolette A. Hodyl
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia;
| | - Susan Fairweather-Tait
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK;
| | - Bernd Froessler
- Department of Anaesthesia, Lyell McEwin Hospital, Elizabeth Vale, SA 5112, Australia;
- Discipline of Acute Care Medicine, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Bahr TM, Carr NR, Christensen TR, Wilkes J, O'Brien EA, German KR, Ohls RK, Ward DM, Christensen RD. Early iron supplementation and iron sufficiency at one month of age in NICU patients at-risk for iron deficiency. Blood Cells Mol Dis 2021; 90:102575. [PMID: 33989937 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcmd.2021.102575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In order to reduce iron deficiency in neonates at-risk for iron deficiency, we implemented a guideline to increase the consistency of early iron supplementation in infants of diabetic mothers, small for gestational age neonates and very low birthweight premature neonates. Three years following implementation we performed a retrospective analysis in order to assess adherence to the guideline and to compare timing of early iron supplementation and reticulocyte-hemoglobin (RET-He) values at one month of life in at-risk infants. Adherence with early iron supplementation guidelines was 73.4% (399/543) with 51% (275/543) having RET-He values obtained at one month. Despite good adherence, 16% (44/275) had RET-He <25 pg (5th percentile for gestational age). No infants receiving red blood cell transfusion (0/20) had RET-He <25 pg vs. 26.1% (40/153) of those treated with darbepoetin (p < 0.001). There was no evidence of increased feeding intolerance (episodes of emesis/day) with early iron supplementation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy M Bahr
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| | - Nicholas R Carr
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Jacob Wilkes
- Intermountain Healthcare Research, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Elizabeth A O'Brien
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Intermountain Healthcare Research, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Kendell R German
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Robin K Ohls
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Diane M Ward
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Center for Iron and Heme Disorders, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Robert D Christensen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Intermountain Healthcare Research, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Center for Iron and Heme Disorders, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Reconciling markedly discordant values of serum ferritin versus reticulocyte hemoglobin content. J Perinatol 2021; 41:619-626. [PMID: 33012780 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-020-00845-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine why serum ferritin and reticulocyte hemoglobin (RET-He), drawn to assess neonatal iron sufficiency, sometimes have markedly discordant results. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective records review of five NICUs over 28 months, identifying all patients with a ferritin and RET-He within 48 h. We examined records of all who had marked discordance (one value >95th % reference interval, the other <5th %). RESULTS Of 190 paired ferritin and RET-He measurements, 16 (8%) were markedly discordant. Fifteen of the 16 discordant samples involved a high ferritin and a low RET-He. In these, low MCV and high %Micro-R, and low MCH and high %HYPO-He were present. In total, 8 of the 15 had laboratory or clinical evidence of an inflammatory process and five had suspicion of infection documented. CONCLUSIONS When ferritin and RET-He were discordant, erythrocyte microcytosis and hypochromasia suggested that the RET-He gave the more accurate interpretation; that iron deficiency was likely present.
Collapse
|
12
|
Bahr TM, Ward DM, Jia X, Ohls RK, German KR, Christensen RD. Is the erythropoietin-erythroferrone-hepcidin axis intact in human neonates? Blood Cells Mol Dis 2021; 88:102536. [PMID: 33450539 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcmd.2021.102536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
In a two-part process, we assessed elements of the principal hormonal pathway regulating iron homeostasis in human neonates. Part 1: Quantifying erythropoietin (Epo), erythroferrone (ERFE), hepcidin, and relevant serum and erythrocytic iron-related metrics in umbilical cord blood from term (n = 13) and preterm (n = 10) neonates, and from neonates born to mothers with diabetes and obesity (n = 13); Part 2: Quantifying serum Epo, ERFE, and hepcidin before and following darbepoetin administration. Part 1: We measured Epo, ERFE and hepcidin in all cord blood samples. Epo and ERFE levels did not differ between the three groups. Preterm neonates had the lowest hepcidin levels, while neonates born to diabetic women with a very high BMI had the lowest ferritin and RET-He levels. Part 2: Following darbepoetin dosing, ERFE levels generally increased (p < 0.05) and hepcidin levels generally fell (p < 0.05). Our observations suggest that the Epo/ERFE/hepcidin axis is intact in the newborn period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy M Bahr
- Division of Neonatology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| | - Diane M Ward
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Center for Iron and Heme Disorders, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Xuan Jia
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Robin K Ohls
- Division of Neonatology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Kendell R German
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Robert D Christensen
- Division of Neonatology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Center for Iron and Heme Disorders, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Women and Newborns Research, Intermountain Healthcare, Murray, UT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Guo R, Neumann D, Lafferty M, Boelig R, Bell-Carey B, Edwards C, Greenspan JS, Derman R, Aghai ZH. Prevalence and Utility of Low Mean Corpuscular Volume in Infants Admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. J Pediatr 2020; 227:108-113.e2. [PMID: 32702426 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2020.07.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the prevalence of low mean corpuscular volume (MCV) in newborn infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit and to assess low MCV as a diagnostic test for alpha thalassemia. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective analysis of all infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit between January 2010 and October 2018 for which a complete blood count was performed during the first 3 postnatal days. Infants with a low MCV were compared with those with a normal MCV. Infants with positive hemoglobin Bart (Hb Bart) were compared with those withnegative Hb Bart. Low MCV was also evaluated as a diagnostic test for alpha thalassemia. RESULTS A total of 3851 infants (1386 preterm, 2465 term) met the inclusion criteria and 853 (22.2%) had a low MCV. A low MCV was more common in term (25%) compared with preterm infants (17.1%, P < .001). Hb Bart positive newborn screening was identified in 133 infants (3.5%). Hb Bart was positive in 11.1% of infants with low MCV compared with 1.3% with normal MCV (P < .001). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of low MCV for the diagnosis of alpha thalassemia were 71.4%, 79.6%, 11.3%, and 98.7%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS As Hb Bart positive newborn screens were seen in only 11.1% of infants with microcytosis, further diagnostic investigation may be warranted in individual infants. Further research to correlate microcytosis with iron status in infants and mothers is needed as well as studies using DNA analysis for the evaluation of alpha thalassemia variants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rose Guo
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital/Nemours, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Dana Neumann
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital/Nemours, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Margaret Lafferty
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital/Nemours, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Rupsa Boelig
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal Fetal Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Brandi Bell-Carey
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital/Nemours, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Caroline Edwards
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital/Nemours, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Jay S Greenspan
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital/Nemours, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Richard Derman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal Fetal Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Zubair H Aghai
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital/Nemours, Philadelphia, PA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Bahr TM, Judkins AJ, Christensen RD, Baer VL, Henry E, Minton SD, Gerday E, Bennett ST. Neonates with suspected microangiopathic disorders: performance of standard manual schistocyte enumeration vs. the automated fragmented red cell count. J Perinatol 2019; 39:1555-1561. [PMID: 31462723 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-019-0482-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To enhance the diagnosis of schistocyte-producing conditions, we compared routine manual schistocyte enumeration with automated fragmented red cell counts (FRCs). STUDY DESIGN In neonates "suspected" of having sepsis, NEC, or DIC we compared manual schistocyte estimates vs. automated FRC counts. When the two disagreed, we used a "gold standard" from a ≥ 1000 RBC differential. We also assessed the diagnostic accuracy of the FRC count in diagnosing sepsis, NEC, or DIC. RESULTS We collected 270 CBCs from 90 neonates. The methods agreed in 63% (95% CI 55%-70%) of the CBCs. Among the 37% where they disagreed, the FRC count was more accurate in 100% (95% CI 88-100%). An elevated FRC count was specific for sepsis, and was sensitive and specific for necrotizing enterocolitis and DIC. CONCLUSIONS Automated FRC counts have advantages over routine manual evaluation, larger sample size, lower expense, and superior accuracy in diagnosing schistocyte-producing conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy M Bahr
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| | - Allison J Judkins
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Robert D Christensen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Women and Newborn's Clinical Program, Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Vickie L Baer
- Women and Newborn's Clinical Program, Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Erick Henry
- Women and Newborn's Clinical Program, Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Stephen D Minton
- Women and Newborn's Clinical Program, Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Utah Valley Hospital, Provo, UT, USA
| | - Erick Gerday
- Women and Newborn's Clinical Program, Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Utah Valley Hospital, Provo, UT, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Cord Blood-Derived Exosomal CNTN2 and BDNF: Potential Molecular Markers for Brain Health of Neonates at Risk for Iron Deficiency. Nutrients 2019; 11:nu11102478. [PMID: 31623079 PMCID: PMC6835945 DOI: 10.3390/nu11102478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal iron deficiency anemia, obesity, and diabetes are prevalent during pregnancy. All are associated with neonatal brain iron deficiency (ID) and neurodevelopmental impairment. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles involved in cell–cell communication. Contactin-2 (CNTN2), a neural-specific glycoprotein, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are important in neurodevelopment and found in exosomes. We hypothesized that exosomal CNTN2 and BDNF identify infants at risk for brain ID. Umbilical cord blood samples were measured for iron status. Maternal anemia, diabetes, and body mass index (BMI) were recorded. Cord blood exosomes were isolated and validated for the exosomal marker CD81 and the neural-specific exosomal marker CNTN2. Exosomal CNTN2 and BDNF levels were quantified by ELISA. Analysis of CNTN2 and BDNF levels as predictors of cord blood iron indices showed a direct correlation between CNTN2 and ferritin in all neonates (n = 79, β = 1.75, p = 0.02). In contrast, BDNF levels inversely correlated with ferritin (β = −1.20, p = 0.03), with stronger association in female neonates (n = 37, β = −1.35, p = 0.06), although there is no evidence of a sex-specific effect. Analysis of maternal risk factors for neonatal brain ID as predictors of exosomal CNTN2 and BDNF levels showed sex-specific relationships between infants of diabetic mothers (IDMs) and CNTN2 levels (Interaction p = 0.0005). While male IDMs exhibited a negative correlation (n = 42, β = −0.69, p = 0.02), female IDMs showed a positive correlation (n = 37, β = 0.92, p = 0.01) with CNTN2. A negative correlation between BNDF and maternal BMI was found with stronger association in female neonates (per 10 units BMI, β = −0.60, p = 0.04). These findings suggest CNTN2 and BNDF are respective molecular markers for male and female neonates at risk for brain ID. This study supports the potential of exosomal markers to assess neonatal brain status in at-risk infants.
Collapse
|